MISSION & HISTORY

The mission of the Arts & Humanities Council of Tulsa is to cultivate a more creative Tulsa through advocacy, education, and innovative partnerships, which contribute to the quality of life and economic vitality of the greater community. As such it is inherent in our mission to recognize and award those individuals and organizations that share our mission and have worked to further Tulsa as a culturally aware city where the lives of all citizens are enriched by access to and participation in a diverse spectrum of arts and humanities experiences. The Harwelden Awards honor individuals and organizations that have been exemplary advocates and supporters of the arts and humanities in the Tulsa community. A committee of Past Presidents of the Council decides the six awards listed below.

The Mayfest Young Artist Awards encourage the artistic and professional development of high school students working in visual, performing, and literary arts. Five $500 awards will be granted to high school students who attend school in Tulsa County, courtesy of Tulsa International Mayfest. A panel of independent jurors will judge award applications. Winners will receive their award at the annual ceremony hosted on March 3, 2017. Additionally, AHCT will honor winners by displaying artwork at the Hardesty Arts Center from March 3-April 23, 2017.

LIST OF AWARDS

KATIE WESTBY LIFETIME ACHIVEMENT AWARD

Ron Predl, Executive Director, Tulsa Symphony

BART BETOW MEMORIAL MUSIC EDUCATION AWARD

Jody Naifeh, Tulsa Honors Orchestra

LIDDY K. DOENGES INDIVIDUAL AWARD

Dr. Ann Tomlins, Director of Fine Arts, Tulsa Public Schools

BENEDICT I. LUBELL CORPORATE AWARD

Saied Music Company

JOHN L. EVERITT NON-PROFIT AWARD

Tulsa Town Hall

CHARLES E. NORMAN DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD

Joan Seay

MAYFEST YOUNG ARTIST AWARDS

Yoonseo Bae, Victory Christian School

Andrew Day, Jenks High School

Ethan Dennis, Jenks High School

Yebin Kim, Union High School

London Thompson, Edison Preparatory High School

PAST HONOREES

Past Harwelden Award Winners – Individual & Nonprofit

Past Harwelden Award Winners – Corporate & Lifetime

Past lists of other award winners coming soon.

OVERALL CRITERIA

Nominees are reviewed by a committee of Past Presidents of the Arts & Humanities Council for qualities including:

• Dynamic leadership, which has had a significant impact on the arts and humanities in Tulsa. Examples might include particularly generous funding of the arts in general or a specific arts program or organization, creation of new programs, public arts advocacy, or leadership in strategic planning or capital campaigns.
• Consistent leadership, which reflects an ongoing commitment to the arts and humanities in Tulsa. Examples might include consistent generous funding of many organizations, board or volunteer leadership across years or in many organizations, as well as active and valued staff or volunteers.
• Visionary leadership, which has increased or changed the possibility and scope of the arts or creative life in Tulsa. Examples might include the founding of a new program or organization, as well as leadership in visionary and innovative partnerships or endeavors.

Complete Awards Summary and Criteria >