Finalists named for Ozzie Awards

The Springfield Regional Arts Council unveiled the finalists for its 39th annual Ozzie Awards, which recognize local contributions to the arts community.

Twelve organizations and individuals are in the running for four honors, with the winners scheduled to be announced at an Oct. 19 ceremony at Springfield-Branson National Airport, according to a news release.

The finalists for the Arts Ambassador Award, recognizing individuals or teams for building an ecosystem for the arts in the Ozarks, are as follows:
• Blake Haynes, co-host and producer for Ozarks Live
• Molly Healey, musician and band member of The Ozark Mountain Daredevils, Lacewings, and Miss Molly and the Good Gollies
• Springfield Symphony Orchestra

In the Arts Champion category, recognizing corporations or organizations for contributions to the arts, the finalists are:
• Art Inspired Academy by Abilities First
• Hatch Foundation
• Springfield-Branson National Airport

Volunteer of the Year finalists, who have been nominated for outstanding service in the community, are:
• Nicole Brownsworth, volunteer with Ozarks Lyric Opera
• Janet Hopkins, volunteer with Springfield Symphony Orchestra
• Sonya Wise, volunteer with Springfield Art Museum

Excellence in Arts Education finalists are:
• Kat Allie of Ozarks Technical Community College
• Taylor Bryson of Nixa Public Schools and Boys Choir of Springfield
• Allison Fleetwood of Nixa Public Schools

"We are excited to celebrate the incredible talent and dedication within our arts community," said Leslie Forrester, SRAC executive director, in the release. "The Ozzie Awards are a testament to the vibrant cultural landscape we have in Springfield, and we are honored to recognize these outstanding individuals and organizations."