The Somerset County Cultural & Heritage Commission is seeking nominations for the 2025 Excellence in the Arts awards. These awards recognize the leadership and contributions of community members that have invested their time, talent, and resources to improve the overall quality and value of the fine and performing arts within Somerset County.
“Since 2006, Somerset County has honored over 60 talented artists, educators, and performers for their remarkable work and creative influence,” said Somerset County Commissioner Melonie Marano, liaison to the Cultural and Heritage Commission. “These awards not only highlight artistic abilities and creativity, they also recognize the incredible people and organizations that support local art programs, new community initiatives, and most importantly, the next generation of artists.”
Individuals, corporations, businesses, and organizations that reside in Somerset County, or whose work directly benefits the county, are eligible to be nominated for the following categories:
- Aspiring Young Artist – Awarded to a Somerset County high school or college student, aged 16 to 25, who excels in the fine or performing arts, aspires to have an arts related career, and exemplifies good citizenship. Nominees that reside in Somerset County but attend school outside the county or New Jersey, are still eligible. One student will receive a $500 scholarship from the Friends of Somerset County Cultural & Heritage, Inc.
- Arts in the Community – Awarded to an individual, corporation, or local organization that exemplifies dedication to inspiring the fine or performing arts in Somerset County.
- Arts in Education or Mentorship – Awarded to an educator or education affiliate for making outstanding contributions to arts education by consistently inspiring and encouraging students in the fine or performing arts.
Nomination Requirements
All nominees must agree to be publicly recognized, as selected awardees will be required to attend the official awards ceremony on May 29.
A typed narrative explaining why your nominee deserves an award, along with one reference from your organization, corporation, school, or other third party, is required. Handwritten narratives will not be accepted.
Supplemental materials that highlight the nominee’s artistic ability and achievements should also be included. This can include resumes, artwork examples, relevant media articles, biographies, letters of support, and other credentials.
Digital nomination forms are currently available and can be accessed on the county website at https://www.somersetcountynj.gov/government/public-works/cultural-heritage/excellence-in-the-arts/excellence-in-the-arts-awards-nomination-form. The nomination deadline is Feb. 28. Awardees will be notified of their selection by March 2025. Self-nominations will not be accepted.
To request a paper copy of the nomination form or for more information, contact the Somerset County Cultural & Heritage Commission at CulturalHeritage@co.somerset.nj.us or (908) 203-6145.
The Excellence in the Arts Awards is made possible with funds from the Somerset County Cultural & Heritage Commission, a partner of the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, and is sponsored by the Somerset County Board of County Commissioners, Somerset County Cultural & Heritage Commission, and the Friends of the Somerset County Cultural & Heritage, Inc.
