WASHINGTON - Jan. 23, 2015 - Americans for the Arts and The United States Conference of Mayors, presented the 2015 Public Arts Leadership Awards at The United States Conference of Mayors’ Winter Meeting. Three civic leaders who have supported and promoted arts and culture in their communities were honored.

• Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper, was awarded the 2015 National Award for State Arts Leadership
• Annise Parker, mayor of Houston, Texas, received the National Award for Local Arts Leadership for cities with a population of 100,000 or more
• Donnalee Lozeau, mayor of Nashua, New Hampshire, was awarded the National Award for Local Arts Leadership for cities with a population fewer than 100,000

“Gov. Hickenlooper, Mayor Lozeau and Mayor Parker embody the best of what civic leaders can do to promote the arts,” said Robert L. Lynch, president and CEO of Americans for the Arts. “They understand the important role that arts and culture play in advancing the economy and uniting communities. Americans for the Arts applauds these leaders’ accomplishments and the efforts made by all civic leaders to support and promote arts and arts education nationwide.”

“Every year, the U.S. Conference of Mayors recognizes the exemplary efforts of local leaders who believe as much as we do that the arts are the heart of our society,” remarked Tom Cochran, CEO and executive director of the U.S. Conference of Mayors. “Arts and culture help shape a city’s quality of life, but mayors also understand the connection between the arts and business and the arts’ impact on the local economy.” 

The ceremony included a performance by Carla Dirlikov, renowned opera singer and Cultural Envoy for the U.S. State Department, accompanied by pianist Justin Snyder.

Americans for the Arts is the leading nonprofit organization for advancing the arts and arts education in America. With offices in Washington, D.C., and New York City, it has a record of more than 50 years of service. Americans for the Arts is dedicated to representing and serving local communities and creating opportunities for every American to participate in and appreciate all forms of the arts. www.AmericansForTheArts.org

MEDIA CONTACT

Jay H. Dick
Americans for the Arts
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