ABOUT US

Barbara Ackerman

When people ask Barb Ackerman what she does at Spirit Graphics and Printing, Inc., she aptly tells them she is the CEO Girl Friday of the company. In plain language that means that though she's at the top, she still loves being involved on the shop floor. Barb started Spirit Graphics and Printing, Inc. out of her garage in 1983, and it's grown into one of the most honored and respected printing and design companies in southern California. If you were looking for Barb on any given day, you'd be as likely to find her behind a desk crunching numbers as you would with her sleeves rolled up, working in the bindery. But don't be fooled by her superb work ethic; Barb also knows how to have fun outside of the office. She has been playing 3-on-3 senior basketball for the last 13 years, and has competed in four national senior Olympics! Later this year Barb will celebrate 50 years of marriage to her husband, Thomas, with whom she shares four grandchildren, eight grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.

Random Fact: "On the side, I own and operate a Catholic books and gifts store."

Thomas Ackerman, Jr

has been a principal at Spirit Graphics and Printing, Inc. for more than 15 years. His mother and grandfather influenced his lifelong affinity for ink and paper, as both of them enjoyed long, successful careers as print specialists. As Owner/Operator, Thomas is actively engaged at every level of the company's daily business operations, doing everything from training employees to running the four-color press. His greatest contribution, perhaps, is that of a visionary leader who is continually looking for ways to better serve his clientele. One of the accomplishments Thomas is most proud of is the Green Essentials program, which he implemented to employ more sustainable, environmentally sound business practices. As a result, Spirit Graphics and Printing, Inc. has won several prestigious environmental awards, including the What They Think 2009 Thought Leader award.  The latest award being the  annual CoolCalifornia Small Business Award Program which is administered by the California Air Resources Board. The program recognizes small California businesses and organizations (under 100 employees) that have demonstrated exceptional leadership and made notable, voluntary achievements towards reducing their climate impact.

When he's away from the office Thomas can usually be found surfing, fishing, kayaking, taking photos, or cooking with the fresh ingredients from his garden. His first love, however, is his family: Tina Rae, his wife of nine years, and two children - Brandon and Blaze. . And of course thier loving dog Zoe.

Donna Lee D’Alia

is our lead graphic designer and prepress specialist. As daughter of the founder, Donna Lee has done what all the other family employees have done over the years: learn every aspect of the business. In the early days she answered phones, worked in bindery and made deliveries, but her innate creativity led her back to school. Years of experience and formal education have carried her to the cutting edge of graphic design. Today, Donna Lee loves to take clients through the creative process, helping them find the tools that will make their businesses thrive. As you might imagine, Donna Lee's creative genius isn't limited to design work. She is a highly acclaimed singer-songwriter who has recorded six albums, and has won three Unity Awards from the United Catholic Music & Video Association. When she's not working hard at the office, Donna Lee performs for audiences around the world.

Random Fact: "I have been playing guitar since I was seven years old!"

Chantell Williams

has never known life outside of Spirit Graphics. Born into the prolific family that started the business, she spent a great deal of time at the office during school breaks, eager to help and to learn. By the time she graduated from high school it was apparent that she had inherited the skill and work ethic of her great-grandfather.  In 2006 she began working in the family business full-time, bringing a myriad of fresh ideas and approaches with her. Chantell is the office Production Manager, which means that if it pertains to accomplishing things efficiently and excellently, she's all over it. In addition, her warm personality and her attention to detail are only two of the reasons clients love doing business with her! Currently working on her certification as an Adobe Certified Print Specialist, Chantell plans to continue her education by obtaining a degree in Graphic Design. In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, spending time with her longtime boyfriend, and playing with her two canine children.

Random Fact: "I once worked as a Coach handbag specialst."

Zoe

Zoe is our loyal shop dog. She became part of the spirit team in 2001. Zoe loves all the clients and attention she gets. Her favorite thing to do is wait for the UPS truck and the snacks he brings. She can easily be found in the back of the shop sunbathing. She also helps relieve all of our daily stresses. She is always ready for a good back rub. Next time your in the shop give her some love. She definitely remembers people. Her favorite past time is chasing rabbits in the field.

Funny note about Zoe--she can say please if you ask her really nice.