The Wendt Everett Mayors Arts Award Winners

The 2023 Wendt & Everett Mayor’s Arts Awards have celebrated remarkable contributions to the local arts community, with James Madison honored as the recipient of the Richard and Nancy Wendt Award of Excellence for his impactful Acknowledgement Art. DanVonique Bletson Reed, who leads the Music & Performing Arts Department at her church, was recognized as an Arts Catalyst for her extensive involvement in local organizations. The awards also acknowledged Sara Coiley, a theatre teacher at the Everett School District, and Christine Mitchell, a local musician and photographer, as key figures in enhancing Everett's cultural landscape. Ayana Uriu, a Theatre Production Manager and Everett High graduate, also earned recognition as an Arts Educator. The celebratory ceremony is scheduled for April 11, 2024, at the Everett Performing Arts Center, where attendees can enjoy local performances and light refreshments.

This annual event underscores the significance of the arts in fostering community spirit and engagement. The Richard and Nancy Wendt Award of Excellence honors the legacy of two influential figures in the arts, ensuring their contributions continue to inspire future generations. The Mayor’s Arts Awards serve as a testament to the vital role creativity plays in making Everett a better place to live.