Art Advocates
YAA Art Advocates of the Year Awards
Each year Yankton Area Arts recognizes an individual (or group) from the community who has played a significant role in elevating and advocating for The Arts in our community.
An Art Advocate:
-
Believes that art is fundamental to every individual’s development throughout their life
-
Coordinates arts organizations, locally, regionally, or nationally – along with artists and artist’s projects
-
Has strong public relations skills to acquire philanthropist support.
-
Rallies and obtains a strong volunteer support group
-
Promotes partnerships between local organizations for mutual support and good relationships
-
Contributes their artistic talent
-
Is willing to reach out to the community
-
Fosters and integrates arts education in the community
-
Promotes The Arts in their daily lives, business and/or hobbies… And
-
Recognizes the diversity and value of The Arts
Additional Criteria for Nominations:
-
Is NOT a current YAA board member
Past Art Advocate Honorees
These Art Advocates have been honored as persons who have contributed to the arts; advocated for the arts in their everyday life; and/or made a significant contribution to the arts in the community.
Yankton Area Arts is proud to have recognized the following persons for their unique contributions to the arts in our community.
2025
Dixie Church
Honored for her contributions to the musical arts, in the Yankton community, as a pianist.. Dixie has worked, played piano, and taught music, thoughout the years with, or at, Mount Marty College, Yankton schools, Yankton Childrens' Choir, Lewis and Clark Theatre, Sacred Heart Hospital and Avera Majestic Bluffs. . Community involvement and the arts have always been important to Dixie.
2022
Norm Wright
Recognized for his contributions to the Yankton arts community. Roger is a past board member of Yankton Area Arts, and a long time member of the committee that hangs the monthly art exhibits. Roger is also a musician and plays organ at his church.
2024
Roger Huntley
Recognized for his remarkable achievements and unwavering commitment to the arts, in Yankton and beyond. As an artist (sculptor), craftsman, aviator and community leader, his contributions have enriched our communities, preserved our heritage, and inspired countless individuals.
2021
Dakota Prairie Quilt Guild
The Dakota Prairie Quilt Guild brightens the spirits of members of our community through their creativity, craftsmanship, and immense generosity. They honor our community’s veterans, children, medical workers, elderly, and infirm with their gifts and talents. And they pass down their trade to others willing to learn.
2023
Carol Hamvas
Honored for her many years of service to the community and support for the arts. Carol has contributed countless hours as a volunteer and docent at Yankton Area Arts. She and her husband have generously supported the arts, contributing both their talents and financial support for the arts, throughout the community.
2020
Yankton Community Library Staff
Recognized for their ongoing supportive role for the arts in the Yankton community. Yankton Library offers art classes for all ages and abilities; hosts an annual "bad art" competition, providing free art materials and encouraging everyone to create. The Library also hosts authors and illustrators as guest speakers, throughout the year, providing direct and meaningful contact with accomplished writers and artists. The Yankton Library Staff make all this happen with care and joy. Yankton Library staff are also a key participants in the annual Kids Arts Fest in the park.
2019
Michael Schumacher
2015
Pam Kallis
2011
Scott Luken
2007
Dan Johnson Family
2003
unknown
1999
unknown
2018
Sharon Ehrhart
2014
Kathleen West
2010
Joan Neubauer
2006
Karen Harmelink
2002
Kathie Gerstner
1998
Leah Strahl
2017
Donna Ellis
2013
David and Janet Jensen
2009
Craig Sherman
2005
unknown
2001
Jim Means
2016
Rita Wentworth
2012
Dave Tunge
2008
Charlie Zylstra
2004
Jack & Margaret Lyons
2000
Kelly Casey