Tuesday, December 17, 2019 - Published by the Ben Franklin Honor Society (BFHS), the BFHS Book of Wisdom documents, through a series of essays, the journey to success of 47 Society members including FirstPathway Partners CEO, Bob Kraft. The 248-page book is comprised of 47 essays by some of the most successful and accomplished men and women who have defined the growth and direction of the graphic communication industry in the latter part of the 20th century and the start of the 21st century.
The book was conceived and edited by BFHS member Harvey R. Levenson, Cal Poly Professor Emeritus and former head of Cal Poly's Graphic Communication Department. Levenson said, "The BFHS Book of Wisdom will unleash and preserve the experiences of successful industry leaders for all in our industry to learn from, students and present industry members alike.”
Advice from Bob Kraft as featured in the BFHS Book of Wisdom:
"My advice for all those in business leadership, regardless of industry, is to recognize the importance of talent and treat all people with respect while maintaining a balance of humility... and if you can encourage people to go beyond what they believe they are capable of, the business will excel in every possible way and exceed all anticipated expectations."
In 1987, Bob Kraft joined a Milwaukee international marketing agency, DCI Marketing, where he served as Executive Vice President and later President and CEO. Then in 1993, Mr. Kraft founded his first of nine companies. Openfirst, LLC, founded in 1996, became a leading national provider of direct marketing, database management services, and other business communications support for Fortune 1000 companies.
About the Ben Franklin Honor Society:
Founded in 2005 by the consolidation of two established honor societies--The Ash Khan Society of PIA and The Society of Fellows of GATF--the BFHS later further expanded by adding the Order of the Black Leaf of the International Business Forms Industries Association. The Society is presently composed of 282 members, including Bob Kraft, who were elected by their peers. Part of Printing Industries of America, the Society recognizes and honors individuals who have made significant contributions to the advancement and betterment of the printing and graphic communications industry through meritorious service. Inducted members come from Printing Industries of America, its affiliates, other industry associations, printers, and all other segments of the industry. The BFHS members are a reservoir of past and present industry knowledge.