The Perlite Institute

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Perlite Institute Perlite Institute members work together to learn the most efficient and effective ways to produce market-ready perlite, to build awareness among target industries of perlite's potential, and to research & communicate the mineral's properties to end-users.

We are pleased to announce that at the Perlite Institute's 2025 Annual Meeting, President Jake Hess recognized Paul Dunlavey as the Lewis Lloyd Award recipient, which honors individuals who contributed to the development of the perlite industry.

Paul, who passed away in 2022, began his business career in 1964 as a certified public accountant with Ernst & Ernst. Years later, with the support of a local horticultural grower and retailer, Paul founded P.V.P. Industries in 1984 and began production in 1985. Despite the struggles of those early years, Paul continued to grow the business throughout his career and the company is now run by his sons, Michael and Paul.

"Paul was a valued member of our Perlite Institute community and he is greatly missed," stated Jake Hess. "It is my honor to present the Lewis Lloyd Award to the Dunlavey family in honor of Paul and his great contributions."