One Columbia for Arts and Culture names Larry Hembree as 2026 Stephen G. Morrison Visionary Award recipient
March 10, 2026
One Columbia for Arts and Culture announced Larry Andrew Hembree as the 2026 recipient of the prestigious Stephen G. Morrison Visionary Award. This honor recognizes Hembree’s exceptional leadership, creativity, and enduring contributions to the arts and cultural fabric of Columbia and beyond.
The award ceremony will take place on Friday, March 20 from 6:30–8:00 p.m. at the Koger Center for the Arts, where artists, community leaders, and arts supporters will gather to celebrate Hembree’s extraordinary contributions to Columbia’s cultural landscape.
The Stephen G. Morrison Visionary Award celebrates individuals whose innovation, dedication, and passion for the arts have profoundly enriched the cultural vitality of the Columbia community. Hembree’s remarkable career as an artist, arts administrator, educator, and nonprofit leader exemplifies the very essence of this award.
Currently serving as the Executive Artistic Director of the Inclusive Theatre Company of South Carolina, Hembree has devoted his life to making the arts accessible to all. Through his work with Inclusive Theatre Company, he has created transformative opportunities for performers of all abilities to share their talents on stage, championing the belief that creativity knows no boundaries.
A Legacy of Leadership and Impact
Hembree’s career is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the arts. He has held numerous influential roles, including:
- Executive Director of the Nickelodeon Theatre
- Managing Director of Trustus Theatre
- Director of Development and later Executive Director of Columbia Children’s Theatre
- Director of Performing Arts at the South Carolina Arts Commission
Through these roles, Hembree has played a pivotal role in shaping the region’s performing arts ecosystem, strengthening nonprofit arts organizations, and inspiring countless artists and audiences.
Beyond his professional achievements, Hembree is a passionate advocate and community connector. He has served on numerous nonprofit boards and arts initiatives, including The Jasper Project, Congaree Vista Guild, Arts Access SC, and One Columbia for Arts and Culture. His dedication to collaboration, mentorship, and the power of storytelling has brought communities together and elevated the arts across the Midlands.
“Larry has spent his career lifting others through the arts,” said Donavan, President of One Columbia for Arts and Culture. “His vision, generosity, and tireless dedication have shaped Columbia’s creative community in immeasurable ways. He truly embodies the spirit of the Stephen G. Morrison Visionary Award.”
Celebrating a Visionary
Mark your calendars for Friday, March 20, 2026, as the Koger Center for the Arts hosts an evening dedicated to honoring Larry Hembree’s transformative impact on Columbia’s arts and culture. From 6:30–8:00 p.m., artists, community leaders, and supporters will come together to pay tribute to his inspiring legacy and celebrate his unwavering commitment to creativity and inclusion.
“Larry’s contributions to the arts have been nothing short of transformative,” said Xavier Blake, Executive Director of One Columbia for Arts and Culture. “Having known Larry for many years, I’ve witnessed firsthand the passion, creativity, and dedication he brings to every project. His work has left an indelible mark on our community, and we are honored to celebrate his legacy by presenting him with this award on March 20th.”
One Columbia extends its heartfelt gratitude to AgFirst Farm Credit Bank, the presenting sponsor of the event, for their continued support in celebrating the arts. The organization also thanks the Koger Center for the Arts for hosting the ceremony in their beautiful venue.
Guests will enjoy food provided by event partners TakoSushi and Carolina Ale House, whose generous support helps make this celebration possible.
Tickets and RSVP details are available on Eventbrite.
For more information about the Stephen G. Morrison Visionary Award visit:
https://www.onecolumbiasc.com/
About One Columbia for Arts and Culture
One Columbia for Arts and Culture is the designated nonprofit arts organization for the City of Columbia. Its mission is to amplify, support, and celebrate the arts while ensuring creativity remains a vital part of the city’s identity and growth.
