NPTA Presents David S. McGehee with 2013 Stanley O. Styles Industry Excellence Award

NPTA is pleased to announce that David S. McGehee, President of Mac Papers, is the recipient of the 2013 Stanley O. Styles Industry Excellence Award, NPTA’s highest honor.

"David McGehee and the Mac Paper family have truly distinguished themselves with their active engagement with customers and suppliers, coupled with equal amounts of integrity and enthusiasm for our business," said NPTA Chairman Don Clampitt of Clampitt Paper Co.

McGehee began his 40-year career in the paper industry working in the warehouse of Mac Papers, during high school. He returned to the family-owned, fine-paper distribution firm in Jacksonville, Fla., after graduating from college in a sales position. McGehee advanced to General Manager of the Montgomery Division in 1979, then Vice President and Regional Manager in 1982. As President of Mac Papers and Mac Paper Envelope Converters, a position held since 2006, McGehee is directly involved in purchasing, sales, marketing and the day-to-day operations of the company’s 22 branch locations.

As a trustee of the Paper and Plastics Education Research (PAPER) Foundation, McGehee serves as a liaison between NPTA and the University of North Florida (UNF) in Jacksonville on research and promotion in support of Papinet, the global electronic standards initiative for the paper and forest products industry. Researchers at UNF have also produced cost models, sustainability and other industry-related papers for NPTA members.

McGehee was also a co-founder and past chairman of NetPrint, an alliance of privately-owned paper distributors. “With our combined resources, the NetPrint members can compete on a national scale while maintaining our independence,” said McGehee.

McGehee currently serves on the board of Two Sides U.S. and has also participated in and chaired merchant advisory boards over the years.

"David has been instrumental in the expansion of Mac Papers and Mac Paper Envelope Converters," said nominator David Milleman of Mac Papers. "He is passionate about our industry and a natural leader."

Milleman also cited McGehee's ability to attract the best suppliers to Mac Papers and implement innovations in the areas of marketing and sales as professional accomplishments.

Equally rewarding to his professional successes to McGehee is his community involvement. At the Church of Christ, where he has been a life-long member, McGehee serves as a Deacon and Chairman of the pre-kindergarten program. For more than 25 years, he has also been a benefactor and active volunteer for the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville.

"I am surprised, humbled and most appreciative," said McGehee. "As the third generation in paper distribution, I am passionate about the business. My brother, cousin and I have been fortunate to work in areas that we are interested in and surround ourselves with people much more talented than we are."

"Mac Papers is a family-owned company. I feel as though I am continuing and honoring our family legacy with my work," said McGehee. "Being able to pass this opportunity to the next generation in our family is really gratifying."

The Stanley O. Styles Industry Excellence Award presentation will occur at the Paper2013 convention, March 17-19 in Chicago. Donations to honor McGehee can be made to the Paper and Plastics Education Research (PAPER) Foundation 2013 Scholarship Program.