Ray HanleyFrom the time he was hired as president of the Greater Columbus Arts Council (GCAC) in 1985 until his untimely death in 2006, Ray Hanley was the driving force behind cultural development in Columbus, OH. He pushed artists, cultural organizations, arts educators, arts audiences, and the city itself to embrace the diversity and quality of the Columbus cultural community. Because of his work, Columbus is enriched with a cultural community that other cities envy, that impresses visitors, and that community residents are proud to claim as their own.

Recipients of the Ray Hanley Innovation Award should meet the following criteria:

  • Current or former Member of USUAF
  • Innovator in the field in the area of public policy, programming, outreach, arts education, fundraising, and other special initiatives
  • Risk-taking and pioneering
  • Created innovative programs capable of duplication in other cities
  • Recognized for their body of work and/or lifetime achievement

Learn more about the recipients of the Ray Hanley Award.