Maybe Greatness Is in the Genes

Serving the Industry

When Crouch isn't behind his desk, he's out amidst his colleagues, "giving back" to the publishing community. He is active in numerous publishing associations and has taught at several industry conferences, including the prestigious Stanford Professional Publishing Course.

For six years, Crouch has also served on the board of directors for Bookbuilders West, including one term as the association's president. He has managed a book show, hosted by the Publishers Association of the West, and is currently chairing the Association of American University Press' Eco-Task Force Group.

With 40 years (and counting) in publishing, Crouch's tireless desire to better the industry seems without limit. He continues to find reasons to consider books with fascination, respect, pride and awe. "I still feel the surge of a thrill upon entering a humming press room, with the whir, the hiss and thump of presses and bindery machines," he says.

—Gretchen A. Peck