"I'm so thankful for this scholarship opportunity. My interests in publishing techniques, from the web to letterpress to photocopied self-published magazines, will be at the foreground of whatever graphic communications I create this coming year. This scholarship represents, for me, my commitment to staying abreast of innovative digital publishing tools while at the same time finding ways to underline the continued importance of the beautifully printed page in art and graphic design."
John Bylander, EDSF Scholarship Recipient
Board of Directors
Kevin Cushing
As Chief Executive Officer for AlphaGraphics, Inc., Kevin K. Cushing is responsible for driving overall business operations and leading a systemwide effort to pursue opportunities and increase global business. Cushing has more than 30 years of experience in operations, finance, sales and marketing, real estate development and managing large and small organizations.
Before joining AlphaGraphics, Inc., Cushing created Progressive Partners in Minneapolis, MN, with the sole purpose of owning and operating AlphaGraphics centers in the Twin Cities market. Progressive Partners opened its first location in downtown Minneapolis, MN in 1995 and a second location in Plymouth, MN, in 1998. Both locations were among the first AlphaGraphics locations to be accredited with ISO certifications, signifying they had met international quality management and assurance standards. Cushing's superior leadership and visionary approach to quality operations, outside sales and e- Commerce initiatives proved to be a successful combination. He has earned numerous awards, including the AlphaGraphics Rising Star Award, Chairman's Club Award and Gold Circle Status for twelve years.
Cushing' foray into the franchise business industry came during his post as President of Terratron Inc., a company responsible for turning around franchise restaurants that experienced significant operational challenges. During his time with Terratron Inc., Cushing led the firm's growth to become the fourth largest operator of Hardee's Restaurants in the U.S., operating 80 locations in seven states and employing more than 3,000 people. Cushing held several positions at Terratron Inc., including Vice President and Director of Leasing, and Leasing for commercial real estate properties. He serves on the Board of Directors of AlphaGraphics Inc. and G.A. Pindar and Son Limited.
A native of Chicago, IL, Cushing attended Saint Mary's University of Minnesota, where he earned a B.A. in 1978. He also earned his M.B.A from The University of Chicago in 1982. Heavily involved in his community, Cushing has served on the Board of Directors for the Special Olympics in Utah, sponsored events for the San Miguel Middle School and the Hennepin Theatre Trust in Minneapolis and coached Little League baseball and high school ice hockey.
