The Allied Arts Council hosted its Annual Meeting and 35th Annual Mayor’s Awards for the Arts in St. Joseph, honoring local artists, educators, and community leaders—including Artist of the Year Eric Fuson—for their contributions to the region's cultural landscape.
ST. JOSEPH, MO —Creativity took center stage as the Allied Arts Council brought the community together for its Annual Meeting and the 35th Annual Mayor’s Awards for the Arts. The celebration recognized the artists, educators, volunteers, organizations and community leaders whose work helps make St. Joseph and Northwest Missouri stronger through the arts.
The evening reflected what the arts do best: inspire, connect and create shared experiences. Shaun Agnew and Wyatt Wuerfele performed “Out There,” while Jackson Connors and Elena Leonard performed “Someday” from Robidoux Resident Theatre’s recent production of The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Their performances offered a powerful reminder that the arts can bring people together across generations and experiences. Mayor Larry Miller also addressed guests, recognizing the important role the arts play in shaping the community’s identity and future.
The 2026 Mayor’s Awards for the Arts recipients are:
- Artist of the Year: Eric Fuson
- Arts Educator of the Year: Molly Ring
- Youth Artist: Macormick Carlson
- Organizational Achievement in the Arts: Commerce Bank
- Individual Leadership: Nancy Schmidt-Brunson
- Outstanding Volunteers: Jeremy Glenn and Christina Hazelwood
Each recipient represents the talent, generosity and dedication that keep the arts thriving. The Allied Arts Council congratulates every nominee and recipient and is grateful for the meaningful ways they enrich the community.
The Council also thanks the sponsors, partners, volunteers, performers and guests who made the celebration possible. Together, we create a community where the arts are accessible, valued and woven into everyday life.
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