2nd Annual ACE Awards
Executive Director Remarks
Ok… Think for a minute…about the most recent memorable experience you’ve had with ART.
Now, think again about the very first time you ever met ART.
Let the sensation wash over you.
The goosebumps…the anticipation…the magic…the OH!…hmmmm….and YES!…maybe even a “what the #*&^! “
I LIVE for those moments.
It’s what makes some of us work so hard at our jobs everyday, and others dedicate numerous hours of volunteer time and cold hard cash.
And those precious moments brought us here together tonight.
Look around the room.
Acknowledge everyone who came here tonight because they believe art is a valuable asset in our community.
Educators, artists, business reps, city leaders, healthcare workers, social workers, farmers, architects, entrepreneurs, parents, students, activists, etc.
Collectively, it is our responsibility to ensure the arts have a strong and vibrant life now and in the future of Champaign County.
That everyone has access to what art can bring to our lives.
That all forms of creative expression are promoted and cherished for their own unique contribution to life and community.
Yes the arts stimulate economic activity.
Yes, they help educate and prepare our youth for successful careers.
Yes, they attract tourists, residents and new business.
The arts can do many things to make our lives and our community more robust…
but it’s those awesome moments that stick with us….and connect us….
and in a time when technology makes it too easy to be individualistic and isolated…
the arts bring us together to envision something far greater than we could on our own.
Tonight, we honor those who have made a significant impact on our cultural life.
We celebrate the quality, quantity and diversity of arts, culture and entertainment in our community.
And for a moment…one precious moment…we are united.
Thank you for making the arts a priority in your day and your life.
Toast the person to your left and to your right, and congratulate again all of our winners and nominees who help make Champaign County a vibrant and culturally simulating community.
-Jennifer Armstrong
Executive Director
40 North | 88 West
October 19, 2006