TAPPI Kicks Off CorrExpo 2025 In Savannah With Recognition, Community, And Gratitude There's just something about a 7:30 a.m. start that makes coffee taste a little better, especially when surrounded by colleagues and friends who share the same passion for corrugated. That was the energy as attendees gathered for the opening session of TAPPI CorrExpo 2025, led by Larry Montague, President and CEO of TAPPI, and John Semen- ske of BW Papersystems. Montague reported the positive numbers about the event: 1,100 at- tendees, 153 exhibitors, and 38 sponsors. Then, he invited a moment of silence to remember colleagues and friends who have passed since the last TAPPI meeting. With that, the tone shifted to one of celebration. Montague, who has been with TAPPI for 19 years, greeted the crowd with his familiar mix of humor and warmth. “I can say with confidence we have some of the best people, best members in the world,” he said. “We have mem- bers in 65 countries, so I can actually say that!” Investing In The Next Generation From the floor of the general session, Montague emphasized one of TAPPI’s core missions: nurturing the next generation of industry pro- fessionals. Scholarship recipients were recognized for their academic excellence and commitment to the corrugated field. “The development of future leaders and innovators is an important mission for TAPPI,” Montague said. “We invest in the next generation through our student chapters, our Student Summit, and scholarships made possible by our loyal supplier companies. These young men and women represent the future of our industry.” Honoring Larry Montague The morning’s biggest surprise came when Semenske announced the recipient of the David Carlson Leadership and Service Award — none other than Larry Montague himself.
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“We were discussing who would get the leadership award this year,” Semenske said, “and it was a unanimous and a quick decision to give Larry this award.” He spoke about Montague’s influence on TAPPI and the broader industry. “Great leaders often work to put things in place so their orga- nization, and the people they care for, are in a better place than when it started. Our collective futures are bright as a result of Larry’s great leadership.” Montague was visibly moved as he accepted the award. “I’m hon- ored beyond words,” he said. “Everyone here means the world to me.” CONTINUED ON PAGE 8 Semenske, left, presents Montague with the Leadership Service Award.
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October 27, 2025
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