Auburn Pulp and Paper Foundation Annual Meeting

Starts:  Sep 10, 2025 09:00 (ET)
Ends:  Sep 12, 2025 17:00 (ET)

Welcome to the 2025 Auburn Pulp & Paper Annual Fall Conference Registration Page!

đź—“ Conference Dates: September 10–12, 2025

Join us for an immersive three-day experience that brings together students, educators, industry professionals, and innovators to celebrate and shape the future of the pulp, paper, and allied industries. From hands-on recruiting events and student showcases to thought-provoking technical sessions and inspiring keynote speakers, this year’s conference is designed to bridge the gap between education and industry.

🎓 2025 Theme:
“STEM to STEAM: Building the Future of Pulp & Paper from Classrooms to Careers”


This theme reflects our commitment to fostering creativity, innovation, and workforce development across every stage of the talent pipeline—from K–12 outreach to professional advancement.

🔍 What to Expect:

  • Technical Sessions centered on STEAM education, innovation, and workforce development.
  • Mid-day Keynote by Jim Thompson, founder of iPulp Media.
  • Banquet Dinner & Keynote Address by Laurent Sellier, President and CEO, Smurfit WestRock North America.
  • APPF Industry Showcase on Wednesday morning, exclusively for APPF member companies to recruit and connect with Auburn’s top talent.

📝 Registration Options 

  • Full Conference – $400
    Includes access to all sessions, the silent auction fundraiser, banquet dinner, and the APPF Business Meeting.

  • Banquet Dinner Only – $175
    Join us for an evening of celebration and inspiration with our keynote speaker.

  • Banquet Dinner Table (8 Guests) – $1,500
    Reserve a full table for a premium group dining experience.

  • Additional Dinner Guest – $175
    Add-on option for full conference or dinner-only attendees.

🏢 APPF Industry Showcase

📅 Tuesday, September 10 | 🕗 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM | 📍 Gavin Garden
Theme: “Popsicles & Paper”

Exclusively for APPF Member Companies, this showcase offers a fun and engaging way to connect with Auburn’s top engineering students and introduce them to exciting careers in the Pulp, Paper, and Allied Industries.

What to Expect:

  • Interactive browse session with company displays and recruiting tables in a relaxed, outdoor setting.
  • Free popsicles for students to encourage casual conversations and meaningful engagement.
  • A chance to highlight your company’s innovations, culture, and career opportunities.
  • Exclusive interview sessions immediately following the showcase.

đź§  Technical Session Theme

“STEM to STEAM: Building the Future of Pulp & Paper from Classrooms to Careers”

Session Highlights:

  • Presentations from industry leaders and academic experts on innovation, sustainability, and data-driven decision-making.
  • Brief introductions and presentations by current Auburn University pulp and paper students.
  • Real-world examples of how creativity and technical expertise are shaping the future of the industry.

🍽 Banquet Dinner Keynote Speaker

Laurent Sellier
President & CEO, Smurfit WestRock North America

Laurent brings over 30 years of international experience in the pulp and paper sector. He has held leadership roles across Europe and now leads Smurfit WestRock North America—a powerhouse formed from the 2024 merger of Smurfit Kappa and WestRock.

Keynote Topics:

  • The future of sustainable packaging  
  • The role of STEM in shaping the next generation of industry leaders 
  • How global collaboration is driving innovation in pulp and paper

🏨 Accommodations

Discounted rooms are available at the Graduate by Hilton.
Book by August 22 to secure the special rate:


👉 Reserve Your Room 

🎓 Be Part of the Future

Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with industry leaders, scholars, and innovators shaping the future of pulp and paper.