At this year’s Paper Days, the University of Maine Pulp + Paper Foundation presented its Honor Award to Mr. Kowlzan, Chairman and CEO of Packaging Corporation of America.
This recognition reflects not only a distinguished career but a lasting impact on students, the University of Maine, and the broader pulp and paper industry.
For decades, Mr. Kowlzan has championed the Foundation’s mission. He has supported efforts to attract talented students to engineering, strengthened pathways into the industry, and helped ensure that future leaders are prepared to succeed.
But his impact is best understood not through titles or accolades, but through the people he has influenced along the way.
A First Impression That Lasts
For many students, their first interaction with Mr. Kowlzan happens at Paper Days or on campus. What stands out is not just his role, but how he shows up.
“I was a nervous freshman at Paper Days, and I saw him standing there. I thought, this is my opportunity to go meet a CEO. I introduced myself, and he was so down-to-earth. It gave me a confidence boost I carried forward.”
— Patrick Laliberte
“It felt like such a rare privilege to have the CEO of a company come speak face-to-face with students. I was blown away by how approachable and genuine he was.”
— Vanessa Graham
“When I met him, he shook my hand and made me feel like I was really part of the journey I was about to go on.”
— Joshua Igwe, current student
These moments matter. They shape confidence, open doors, and often set careers in motion.
Creating Opportunities That Change Careers
Mr. Kowlzan’s impact extends far beyond introductions. His leadership has directly created opportunities for students and professionals alike.
“Before I even had an offer, I was flown out to tour facilities. That level of investment in students is something you don’t forget.”
— Hudson DePriest, current student
“I went down to visit a PCA mill and saw the culture firsthand. That experience made me take the company seriously and ultimately shaped my path.”
— Anna Eugene, current student
Some moments are even more personal.
“He asked me what I was going to do next in my career, and when I told him, he stopped me and said, ‘You don’t want to do that. You should come work for us.’ Everything he promised turned out to be true.”
— Barb Hamilton
His approach is intentional. He does not just support programs. He builds pathways.
A Leader Who Invests in People
Across every story, one theme is consistent: Mr. Kowlzan invests in people and expects them to grow.
“Just because you’re young doesn’t mean you’re held back. If you’re willing to learn and grow, you’re given opportunities. That speaks to the culture he’s built.”
— Patrick Bishop
“He enables people to do their best work. He calls himself the ‘chief enabler,’ and that’s exactly what he does.”
— Curt Treadwell
“He makes it very easy to do the work we need to do to be successful. That kind of leadership creates an environment where people thrive.”
— Paul Pelletier
This leadership style has shaped not only a company, but generations of engineers.
A Commitment That Strengthens the Entire Community
Mr. Kowlzan’s support has also transformed the Foundation itself.
“His support has allowed us to double our student body. We are now supporting more than 160 students each year and expanding programs like Consider Engineering.”
— Carrie Enos, UMPPF President
His leadership extends beyond financial contributions. He shows up, engages with students, and sets the tone for others in the industry.
A Lasting Legacy
The impact of Mr. Kowlzan’s leadership can be seen in moments like these. A conversation that builds confidence. An introduction that leads to a co-op. A vision that creates entirely new opportunities.
Over time, those moments add up.
They become careers.
They become leadership paths.
They become the next generation of engineers entering and strengthening the industry.
Today, that impact is reflected in the more than 70 UMaine students who have gone on to careers at PCA, and in the continued growth of programs that introduce and support future engineers. It is reflected in a Foundation that continues to expand its reach and deepen its impact.
The UMPPF Honor Award recognizes individuals who have made meaningful contributions to the Foundation, the University, and the industry.
Mr. Kowlzan exemplifies that standard.
At Paper Days, we recognized not only what he has accomplished, but the future he has helped make possible.
Thank you, Mr. Kowlzan!
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