Otis Volunteer Honored at State House Ceremony
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The award was presented by state Sen. Benjamin B. Downing, D-Pittsfield, and an aide representing state Rep. William "Smitty" Pignatelli, D – Lenox.
Officials from the Massachusetts Cultural Council and representatives of local cultural councils from across the state attended the ceremony to recognize volunteer service and to draw attention to the importance of arts and humanities in Massachusetts.
Tolopko was recognized her exceptional work in support of the local program in Otis. She also received official citations from the state Senate and House congratulating her for this recognition.
"Ms. Tolopko has given so much of herself, her time and her talent to promoting arts and culture in Otis," said Downing. "I am glad that the Massachusetts Cultural Council has recognized her contributions towards enhancing her community with rich cultural experiences."
Administered by the MCC, the local councils are grassroots, volunteer-driven cultural funding programs that distribute funds to every city and town. The funds are awarded by a committee of locally-appointed volunteers to support local programs in the arts, humanities and interpretive sciences. The program is made possible through the support of the Legislature, municipal officials and more than 2,300 volunteers who serve on 329 local cultural councils.
Leadership Circle Awards honor state and local leaders who make significant contributions in promoting the arts, humanities and sciences.
Also recognized was Jane Burke, who in February received the Gold Star Award for Great Barrington Cultural Council's Teaching Math and Science through Ceramics program.
The Gold Star Program annually recognizes model community arts, humanities and science projects funded by local councils. These projects celebrate diversity, foster collaboration, showcase artistic excellence and provide learning experiences for people of all ages and backgrounds.
