The Loudoun Arts Council announced the return of the Excellence in the Arts awards program in 2018, renaming the program in honor of Gale Waldron, the long-time arts supporter and former Loudoun Arts Council board member who passed away in January of that year. In this program, Loudoun County high school students in grades 10 through 12 (including home-school students) compete for cash prizes in a number of arts categories.

Participants are judged by professionals in each field, and comments from all judges are provided in order to help students advance in their artistic endeavors. First and second place winners receive cash prizes of $500 and $250, with additional cash prizes or honorable mentions awarded at the judges’ discretion. Winners also have the opportunity to present their accomplishments at a special public event held at the end of the competition.

Sponsors are needed to keep this program strong. Your sponsorship includes a one-year supporting membership in the arts council for you or your organization, or a one-year extension of your current membership. Sponsors are also thanked prominently in our printed materials, press releases, and at the awards reception.

If you are unable to sponsor at one of the higher levels listed below, we invite you to become an Excellence Booster at the $100 level or to donate any amount to support the program.

To volunteer to help with the program as a judge or in some other way, or to find out more about the many ways you can contribute, please email info@loudounarts.org.