The Manatee Arts Education Council (MAEC) partnered with the Manatee Education Foundation and the School District of Manatee County on Friday, April 5, 2024, to present the 5th annual “Arts Alive!” event.
The evening, held at State College of Florida’s Performing Arts Recital Hall, featured dazzling displays of student artwork along with inspiring student musical and dance performances including the Manatee High School Fiddlers, elementary music students, State College of Florida Chamber Choir, a Lakewood Ranch High School Pianist, Braden River High School Clarinet Quartet, and Manatee School for the Arts Turning Pointe Ballet Company.
Special recognitions were also given to outstanding arts education leaders in our community and schools.
Herbie Rose Arts Innovation Award - ArtCenter Manatee
Vernon DeSear Arts Champion Award - Samantha Cummins
Distinguished Manatee County Alumni Award - Dan Denton
Dr. Larry R. Thompson Arts Education Advancement Award - Johnette Isham
Barbara Turner Grace Visual Art Education Award - Una Jones
Linda Boone Dance Education Award - Ellen Meade
NDC Construction served as the Presenting Sponsor.
Reception sponsors included Ringling College of Art + Design, Willis Smith, The Early Learning Coalition, Bradenton Area Arts & Culture and Long & Associates.
More photos can be viewed on the school district's Facebook page.