2026 Paul W. Magnabosco Outstanding Local Section Award

TAPPI, the leading association for the pulp, paper, tissue, packaging and converting industry, is pleased to announce that John DeJarnette, has been named winner of the distinguished Paul W. Magnabosco Outstanding Local Section Award. The award recognizes remarkable leadership and service to one or more TAPPI Local Sections. Recipients are individuals whose exceptional service has resulted in significant and measurable benefits to TAPPI Local Sections through a single activity or through longtime efforts.

“Mr. DeJarnette’s continued service and dedication to the Gulf Coast TAPPI/Dixie PIMA Local Section is truly commendable,” said TAPPI President and CEO Lawton C. Roberts. “I look forward to presenting him with the Magnabosco Award at TAPPICon®️.”

DeJarnette is a Senior R&D Scientist with Smurfit Westrock leading fiber technology research and development projects from laboratory work to pilot evaluation and mill scale up in the areas of virgin, recycled, and alternative wood fiber types. He is an active member of the Gulf Coast TAPPI/Dixie PIMA Local Section, having served initially on the Executive Committee, later completing the Chair rotations including multiple years as Chaiman of the Local Section. DeJarnette continues to serve by organizing and running technical meetings and local engagements.

DeJarnette holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from James Madison University and was awarded a Graduate Certificate in the Foundations of Chemical Engineering from Michigan State University in 2018.

The award will be presented at TAPPICon, April 26-29, 2026 in Columbus, Ohio, USA.

About TAPPI:

TAPPI is the leading association for the worldwide pulp, paper, packaging, tissue and converting industries and publisher of Paper360° Magazine, Tissue360° Magazine and TAPPI Journal. Through information exchange, events, trusted content and networking opportunities, TAPPI helps members elevate their performance by providing solutions that lead to better, faster and more cost-effective ways of doing business. It has provided management training and networking to the industry’s leaders for over 110 years. For more information, visit TAPPI’s website.