Nominations open for Enduring Spirit Awards

The Friends of African American Art & Culture, a membership affiliate of the Columbia Museum of Art, will accept nominations for its Enduring Spirit Awards from Wednesday, July 25 through Friday, August 17, 2018. The Enduring Spirit Awards honor the outstanding achievements of African American women in the Midlands who are working to improve their communities. This year marks the second annual presentation of the awards.

The Enduring Spirit Awards are named in honor of the work of Columbia artist Tyrone Geter who credits his mother as the inspiration for his art. Much of Geter’s work celebrates the relationship between mothers, daughters, and sisters—Black women—whose personal and public sacrifices make it possible for their children to advance. His work is deeply informed by the experience and example of his mother, who had a third grade education and spent her life as a domestic worker. “My work is compassion, hope, justice, and perseverance, things I learned from my mother,” said Geter. “It seeks to speak to and for those with no voice.”

Nominations for the 2018 Enduring Spirit Awards will be accepted in the following categories:

Community Champion – Personally identified a local community need or issue and initiated meaningful change by dedicating her own time and resources to champion her cause. She has made a significant and sustained difference in the Midlands while being recognized as a source of strength and heart in her community and is able to harness the time, talent, and capacity of others.

Business – Professional leadership and consistent commitment to excellence acknowledged by colleagues and competitors in her field. She has made a significant and sustained difference in her field while leveraging her achievements and business acumen to facilitate change and to create opportunities for others. She demonstrates respect for and engagement with her community, clients, and colleagues.

The Arts – Artist or arts enthusiast who excels at facilitating or promoting artistic efforts and finding opportunities to help aspiring artists and/or arts organizations with mentorship, advocacy, and/or financial support. Her efforts have broadened community engagement in the arts.

Education – Led or promoted educational initiatives that have yielded significant results in education. Her dedication and determination have enriched the academic experience and made a positive difference in students’ lives.

The deadline for nominations is August 17, 2018. To nominate a deserving African American woman in your community, go to columbiamuseum.org/faaac to complete an application form. Submit online or by mail to FAAAC at Columbia Museum of Art, P.O. Box 2068, Columbia, SC 29202. Questions about the awards may be directed to[email protected].

The Enduring Spirit Awards will be presented on Thursday, September 27, 2018, at the Columbia Museum of Art.

For more information about the awards, nominations, and sponsorship opportunities, visitcolumbiamuseum.org/faaac.