Supporting The Arts in Richland

Print Feedback

Font Size: + -

Deadline extended through end of day March 17, 2025 to accept nominations for organizations

Applications OPEN - 2024 STAR Awards

Nominate your favorite individual and/or organization for the 2024 Supporting the Arts
(STAR) Awards in Richland!

Supporting the arts refers to the patronage and encouragement of artistic endeavors, including visual arts, literature, music and entertainment. See past winners below:

The extended deadline to apply or submit a nomination is Monday, March 17, 2025 by end of business day. The Richland Arts Commission will consider submittals at their next workshop. The chosen recipients will be presented with an award at a Richland City Council meeting in March or April of 2025 as schedules allow.

Apply HERE

For further information or inquiries, please contact:
Julie Piper, Recreation Manager
509-942-7501
jpiper@ci.richland.wa.us

Please note, recipients may not receive this award more than once in a five-year period. Awards may not be presented if suitable nominations are not received. For a list of past recipients, please scroll to the lower part of this page.

______________________

Congratulations to the 2023 Winners and Nominations

Individual Recognition

Brandie Soden (formerly Saint-Claire)
Director of Art in the Park Festival

The 2023 STAR Individual Award was proudly presented to Brandie Soden (Saint-Claire), an inspiring leader and passionate advocate for the arts in the Tri-Cities. A Richland native and Bomber Alumni, Brandie has been a driving force behind the beloved Art in the Park Festival, a cultural cornerstone in the region for over 73 years. As Director of the festival since 2021, Brandie has led a remarkable transformation, doubling event attendance in just three years—from 34,000 to over 71,000 attendees. Her visionary leadership has not only enhanced the festival's impact but has also generated vital revenue for local businesses, all while keeping the event free to the public.

Under Brandie's stewardship, Art in the Park, a signature event organized by the Allied Arts Association, has garnered numerous accolades, including the 2023 "Most Dynamic Festival" award, and has earned top rankings as the 4th "Best Festival in the Pacific Northwest" and the 6th "Best Festival in the United States" in 2023. Brandie's dedication to enriching the cultural landscape of Richland and the greater Tri-Cities community exemplifies the spirit of the STAR Award, recognizing her as an outstanding ambassador for the arts.

Art in the Park Festival Website

Organization Recognition

Academy of Children's Theater

The 2023 STAR Organization Award was presented to the Academy of Children's Theatre (ACT), an organization dedicated to fostering creativity and passion for the arts in youth since its founding in June of 1995. ACT's first performances, How to Eat Like a Child and Fame, debuted at Sunfest, marking the beginning of their commitment to inspiring young performers.

Over the years, ACT has grown to offer a wide range of opportunities for children, including classes, workshops, and 4-6 Main Stage plays and musicals annually. While acting is a major focus, ACT also provides a platform for students to explore other vital roles in theater such as directing, lighting, and stage managing. These experiences build essential life skills, including public speaking, problem solving, critical analysis, and teamwork.

Beyond their in-house productions, ACT reaches out to the community through outreach programs in schools and nonprofit organizations, encouraging students to engage with and contribute to their local communities. ACT is steadfast in placing children at the heart of its productions, ensuring an immersive, safe, and affirming environment that nurtures a love for theater arts.

Academy of Children's Theater Website

Recognizing local art supporters through the years

Year - Organization | Individual

2017 - Tri-Cities Steel Band Association | Patrick Fleming
2016 - Fox-Vance Family Foundation | Nancy Doran
2015 - HAPO | Robert Waltrous
2014 - Tri-Cities Chinese American Association | Debra Rogo
2013 - RPBI (Market at the Parkway) | Chuck Eaton
2012 - Tumbleweed Art Studio / Jo Brodzinksi
2011 - Battelle | Justin Raffa
2010 - (not awarded) | Tom Powers
2009 - Columbia Center Rotary | Fred Dixon
2008 - Allied Arts Association | Artis Vaughan
2007 - (not awarded) / | Jerry Greenfield