Press Release

Akerman LLP, a top 100 U.S. law firm serving clients across the Americas, has once again joined forces with Dixon Ticonderoga Company, maker of the iconic No. 2 pencil, to donate backpacks filled with school supplies to nearly 500 students in-need. As the third annual backpack event, the donations have benefited nearly 1,700 children in the School District of Palm Beach County.

"We are proud to be a partner with our client, Dixon Ticonderoga Company, as we continue our shared mission to advance education and youth development in underserved communities nationwide," said Mark Passler, Partner in Akerman's Intellectual Property Practice Group. "We are committed to enhance educational opportunities for at-risk students and support the achievements of those who make school a priority."

"Many schools across Palm Beach County lack the basic items critical to classroom success," said Beth Alcalde, Managing Partner of Akerman's Palm Beach County Offices. "These supplies make it possible for children in-need to begin the school year with confidence and focus on their learning. Our partnership with clients and community partners like Dixon Ticonderoga Company is evidence that together we can make an impact in the lives of struggling youth locally and nationwide."

Students at the Roosevelt Elementary School, located at 1220 15th Street, will receive the supply-filled backpacks during a dedicated celebration of education and creativity on Aug. 30 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. The youngest among them will participate in an arts and crafts session to show their gratitude to their families, teachers, school district leaders and donors in attendance. Their creations will depict personal goals and positive visions of school life.

Since 2014, Akerman and Dixon Ticonderoga Co. have committed to providing children and young adults with the educational tools they need to thrive. The partnership is part of Akerman's philanthropic and pro bono commitment to education and youth development, and its efforts to achieve greater impact in at-risk communities.

The Financial Times ranked Akerman among the nation's most innovative law firms in social responsibility last year for introducing new methods of community impact for foster youth. The firm created a first-of-its-kind law firm partnership with National Court Appointed Special Advocates Association (National CASA) during the inaugural Akerman Give Back Campaign. Since its launch, Akerman lawyers and staff across the country have contributed countless hours to pro bono legal service, community volunteerism and extensive fundraising efforts benefiting more than 16,000 abused and neglected children in foster care. As a lasting contribution to current and former foster youth nationwide, Akerman also made a historic $1 million pledge to National CASA and established the Akerman Academic Excellence Scholarship program to help strengthen the pathway to higher education.

About Akerman
Akerman LLP is a leading transactions and trial law firm known for its core strengths in middle market M&A, within the financial services and real estate industries, and for a diverse Latin America practice. With more than 650 lawyers and government affairs professionals and a network of 24 offices, it is ranked among the top 100 law firms in the United States by The American Lawyer (2016). Akerman also is ranked among the top 60 law firms for diversity in The American Lawyer's Diversity Scorecard (2016).

Akerman has a long history of public service and corporate citizenship that stems from a deep commitment to serve as allies and advocates in the community. The firm's philanthropic and pro bono efforts focus on important and vital causes — particularly in the areas of education and youth development. Akerman addresses critical social issues through community and client partnerships, employee volunteerism and pro bono service to expand the reach of shared purpose-driven initiatives.

About Dixon Ticonderoga Co.
Dixon Ticonderoga Co. manufactures and markets a wide range of writing instruments, art materials and office supplies under the Ticonderoga, Prang, Dixon, Oriole, Das and Lyra brands. Headquartered in Heathrow, Fla., the company is a subsidiary of Milan-based Fabbrica Italiana Lapis ed Affini S.p.A. (FILA). For more information, visit www.DixonUSA.com.

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