American Achievement Corporation

One of the largest manufacturers and sellers of class rings, yearbooks, and commemorative and achievement products in the nation. The company also makes fine paper products for the scholastic market, such as diplomas, graduation announcements, certificates, and stationery, as well as championship rings, consumer sports jewelry, and family jewelry for special occasions. Its Taylor Yearbook division is one of the largest yearbook publishers in America. AAC also publishes Who's Who Among American High School Students and Who's Who Among America's Teachers. Headquartered in Austin, Texas, AAC was created through Castle Harlan Partners II's acquisition of the ArtCarved division of CJC Holdings Inc. and the L. G. Balfour business of Town and Country Corp. The total purchase price for the two companies was $130.6 million, plus $40.6 million for working capital.