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PRESS RELEASE: Otis Redding Foundation Honored with Prestigious Governor’s Award for Arts and Humanities
ATLANTA – December 12, 2023 – The Otis Redding Foundation was honored with a Governor’s Award for the Arts and Humanities for significant contributions to Georgia in these fields. The awards were announced by Governor and First Lady Kemp and presented in partnership with the Georgia Council for the Arts, a branch of the Georgia Department of Economic Development, and Georgia Humanities.
Following a competitive nominations process, 10 members of the arts and humanities communities from across Georgia were awarded with this year’s honor. The recipients represent a diverse group of individuals and organizations that have contributed to, and supported the growth of, Georgia’s thriving creative industries through community involvement, pioneering programs, and long-term financial commitment.
“The Governor’s Awards recognize the value of the arts and humanities in the creation of a thriving economy and their significant contributions to education, community building, and quality of life in Georgia,” said Georgia Council for the Arts Executive Director Tina Lilly. “We are excited to pay tribute to Georgia organizations that have demonstrated a longtime commitment to work in these fields.”
“Georgia Humanities salutes these recipients,” said Georgia Humanities President Laura McCarty. “Their contributions are vital to preserving what is special about our state.”
“Receiving the Governor’s Award for the Arts and Humanities is a profound honor for the Otis Redding Foundation,” stated Karla Redding-Andrews, Vice President & Executive Director of the Otis Redding Foundation. “We’re deeply grateful to the Governor and First Lady Kemp, the Georgia Council for the Arts, and Georgia Humanities for recognizing our unwavering commitment to music education since 2007. Proudly reflecting on our significant contributions to Georgia’s arts community, we acknowledge the tireless efforts of our team, community support, and the enduring legacy of Otis Redding. Collaborating with the Georgia Council for the Arts has been instrumental in our growth, reinforcing our dedication to fostering music education in Georgia.”
This year, recipients of the Governor’s Awards for the Arts and Humanities will receive a handmade sculpture created by Mark A. Nelson. A program guide, which includes a description of each of the recipients, is available online.
About the Award Partners
Georgia Council for the Arts (GCA) works to cultivate the growth of vibrant, thriving Georgia communities through the arts as part of the Georgia Department of Economic Development’s mission. GCA provides grant funding and statewide programs and services that support the vital arts industry, preserve the state’s cultural heritage, increase tourism, and nurture strong communities. Funding for GCA is provided by appropriations from the Georgia General Assembly and the National Endowment for the Arts. For more information, visit www.gaarts.org.
Georgia Humanities promotes and preserves the stories and cultural legacies of the state’s people — from the past to the present and into the future — to enrich their lives and strengthen their communities. An informed and educated Georgia understands historical and cultural trends, respects the life of the mind, utilizes critical thinking in decision-making, and promotes mutual respect and civility. Funding for Georgia Humanities is provided by the Georgia General Assembly, the National Endowment for the Humanities, foundations, donors, and partners. For more information, visit www.georgiahumanities.org.
