Special to the WJH
The Okefenokee Heritage Center was presented the 14th annual Governor’s Award for the Arts and Humanities December 1 at the Georgia Capitol in Atlanta.
OHC was one of only 10 organizations statewide to receive the award after a rigorous application and screening process. It was the center’s second award, the first coming in 1980.
“This Governor's Award is a very special ending to an incredible year-long OHC 50th Anniversary celebration.” said OHC Executive Director Carla Garrett Cornett. “It's the cherry on top. What an incredible honor.”
With Cornett to receive the award were OHC Art Gallery Director Bob Brown, OHC artist Diane Brown and OHC Art Guild Chair Susan Newman.
Presenting the award on behalf of Gov. Brian Kemp was Sydne Moody Smith, Chief Operating Officer for the GA Department of Economic Development.
Smith grew up in Waycross where she was a fourth grade student of Newman.
“On behalf of the State of Georgia, I want to congratulate the recipients of this year’s Governor's Awards for the Arts and Humanities,” said Kemp. “Georgia is proud of its world-renowned arts and entertainment scene, which has supported the state’s thriving economy for decades. The talented individuals and organizations recognized this year have played a key role in those efforts, and we’re grateful for their impact on their local communities and our state as a whole.”
