The future of the graphic arts in America got measurably brighter recently, when the Graphic Communication Scholarship Foundation conducted its Sixth Annual Awards Ceremony.

An audience of 110 print professionals and the award winners' proud parents gathered in the atrium of the new Hearst Tower on June 24 to join in the presentation of $53,000 in scholarship funds to 25 metropolitan area students who are pursuing graphic arts careers.

Ranging in size from one thousand dollars to five thousand dollars, each scholarship was sponsored by a different company within the graphic arts community. Eleven of the 25 awards went to students who are entering college this fall, and 13 were presented to students who are already pursuing their college degrees at some of the nation's top schools.

Expanding the scope of its awards this year, the foundation granted the 25th and final award to a middle school student who will be starting a graphic arts curriculum in high school next year. The educational fund also announced tentative plans to provide scholarships to graduate students who are pursuing graphic arts careers.

The scholarship program is conducted by the Graphic Communications Scholarship Award and Career Advancement Foundation, a non-profit that encourages leading corporations in the industry to develop professional and educational opportunities for graphic arts students.