Ordway Center Sally Awards

History of the Ordway Center Sally Awards

The Sally Ordway Irvine Awards were created in 1992 to honor individuals and institutions that strengthen and enrich our entire community with their initiative, vision, commitment to the arts, and ability to educate about the arts.  Their talents and determination help to make this area one of the country's richest in the arts.

The Sally Award is based on the "First Trust Award" presented in 1986 to Sally Ordway Irvine - whose initiative, vision, and commitment provided the inspiration for the creation of Ordway Center for the Performing Arts.  Her award is permanently installed in Ordway Center's Marzitelli Foyer.

To honor Sally's commitment to all of the arts, the Sally Ordway Irvine Awards are presented annually to acknowledge achievement and contribution in the three areas for which Sally herself was recognized - Vision, Initiative, and Commitment.  The fourth category, Education, was added in 1996 because of its importance in building understanding and support of the arts - and hopefully lighting the spark - with both young people and adults. 

Individuals and institutions from any artistic or cultural field are eligible to receive the award as are artists, volunteers, and philanthropists.  Candidates from throughout Minnesota are considered, including smaller organizations whose contributions may not have received widespread public notice.