S.C. Arts Commission Announces 2015 Elizabeth O’Neill Verner Awards Recipients

February 23, 2015

COLUMBIA, SC – The South Carolina Arts Commission announces the 2015 Elizabeth O’Neill Verner Governor’s Awards for the Arts, the highest honor the state presents in the arts. Established in 1972, the annual awards recognize outstanding achievement and contributions to the arts in South Carolina.

This year’s recipients:
Individual Artist: Aldwyth, Hilton Head Island
Individual: Dr. Donald Portnoy, Columbia
Arts in Education: Howe Hall Arts Infused Magnet School, Goose Creek
Business: Wells Fargo Bank
Government: The City of Lancaster, South Carolina
Organization: College of Charleston School of the Arts, Charleston
Lifetime Achievement: Dr. Terry K. Peterson, Kiawah Island

“South Carolina’s quality of life, education and economy are enhanced tremendously by those who dedicate their work and lives to the arts,” said S.C. Arts Commission Chairman Henry Horowitz. “The Verner Awards recognize that service of commitment and passion. We are honored again this year to present the awards to a most worthy group of organizations and individuals. We are grateful for their contributions to our state.”

Awards will be presented at a ceremony in Columbia on Wednesday, May 13. The S.C. Arts Foundation will honor the recipients and the arts community at the South Carolina Arts Gala, a fundraiser supporting the programs of the S.C. Arts Commission. For more about the Verner Awards or the S.C. Arts Gala, call (803) 734-8696 or visit www.SouthCarolinaArts.com.

 

About the S.C. Arts Commission

The South Carolina Arts Commission is the state agency charged with creating a thriving arts environment that benefits all South Carolinians, regardless of their location or circumstances. Created by the South Carolina General Assembly in 1967, the Arts Commission works to increase public participation in the arts by providing services, grants and leadership initiatives in three areas: arts education, community arts development and artist development. Headquartered in Columbia, S.C., the Arts Commission is funded by the state of South Carolina, by the federal government through the National Endowment for the Arts and other sources. For more information, visit www.SouthCarolinaArts.com or call (803) 734-8696.