The Board of Directors of the Southwest Minnesota Arts and Humanities Council (SMAHC) is pleased to announce that this year's Prairie Disciple Award recipient is Louise Mack of New London, Minnesota.  The Prairie Disciple award acknowledges one person who has been instrumental in promoting the arts in the 18-county area of southwestern Minnesota. This award is made possible with funds provided by the McKnight Foundation.

"Louise is a gem.  She is a leader, team member, participant, director, producer, and perhaps most importantly the consummate volunteer advocate of the arts," says Sharon Mace, Willmar, nominator of Mack for the 2005 award.  Louise Mack "consistently seeks production that are, as she says, 'a little bit edgy' to challenge and promote growth in actors, crew members, and audiences alike."   In his letter of support, Marv Lucas, Director of Academic Programs at Rocori Public Schools says that "Louise exemplifies the main tenant of our organization which is to promote the arts for the enrichment of community and youth."

Past recipients of the Prairie Disciple Award have been Veron E. Stevens, Dawson; Patricia Evans, Marshall; Tina Anderson Richards, Walnut Grove; Ben VanderKooi, Luverne; Mercein Holzemer, Madison; Rallah Madison, Lismore; Karen Reede, Marshall; and Patrick Moore, Montevideo. 

A formal awards presentation will be made at the SMAHC 31st Anniversary Celebration and Annual Meeting on October 29, 2005 at the Southwest Minnesota State University Conference Center. Please join with SMAHC in thanking Louise Mack for all her efforts in supporting the arts in southwestern Minnesota.