The ArtsQuest Foundation has announced the full list of honorees for the 10th Anniversary Linny Awards presented by Elaine Emrick, an annual celebration recognizing the individuals, organizations and emerging artists whose passion and dedication continue to shape the Lehigh Valley’s thriving arts and cultural landscape.

The 10th Anniversary Linny Awards presented by Elaine Emrick, pay tribute to the legacy of Marlene “Linny” Fowler, a longtime champion of the arts whose advocacy helped lay the foundation for the region’s creative community. Elaine Emrick has served as the title sponsor of the Linny Awards since 2024, helping support and elevate the program’s continued growth and impact across the region. The awards are presented to distinguished individuals from the region for their long-term commitment and dedication to the arts. This year’s celebration will take place Oct. 15 in the Musikfest Café at the ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks.

“Each year, the Linny Awards reminds us that the strength of our arts community is grounded in the people who show up to create, champion and invest in it year after year,” said Kassie Hilgert, president and CEO of ArtsQuest. “From artists and educators to business leaders, volunteers and philanthropists, this year’s honorees reflect the tremendous talent and generosity that defines the Lehigh Valley. Their work fuels connection, inspires future generations and helps drive our region forward.”

New this year, the 10th Anniversary Linny Awards presented by Elaine Emrick will introduce a Culinary Artist of the Year category, recognizing the artistry and creativity of chefs and culinary professionals whose work elevates food as an expressive and cultural medium.

The full list of this year’s honorees include:

• Lifetime Achievement — Ashley Russo

• Philanthropy in the Arts — Michael and Michele Pessina

• Business Supporter of the Arts — C.F. Martin & Co.

• Culinary Artist of the Year — Chef Will Rufe

• Visual Artist of the Year — Katie Hovencamp

• Arts Educator of the Year — Tiffany Anderson

• Performing Artist of the Year — Vernon Mobley

• Student Artist Scholarship — Raeya Bell

• Volunteer of the Year — Ronda Senior

Tickets for the 10th anniversary Linny Awards presented by Elaine Emrick are on sale now with Early Bird pricing available until Sept. 7. For tickets and additional information, please visit: www.artsquest.org/the-linny-awards.

Award recipients were selected by the ArtsQuest Foundation Board of Trustees, the ArtsQuest Board of Trustees, the ArtsQuest Performing Arts Board and the ArtsQuest Visual Arts Board.

About the Linnys

For more than a quarter-century, Marlene “Linny” Fowler of Bethlehem worked tirelessly to elevate the Lehigh Valley’s arts organizations and artists through her volunteerism and her support. Now, the region celebrates its flourishing arts community and honors Fowler’s memory by taking part in the Linny Awards, the multidisciplinary arts awards program focused on the greater Lehigh Valley’s artists, innovators and arts leaders.