May 11, 2023:  At Main Library Costin Room

The Framingham Cultural Council (FCC) held its annual Awards Reception on May 11 in the Costin Room of the Framingham Public Library. FCC chair Mauricio Perea served as emcee and welcomed guests to the 2023 celebration of individuals and groups contributing to the arts and culture of the community. Mayor Charlie Sisitsky, members of the City Council, Leslie White Harvey, Vice Chair of the Framingham Public Library Board of Trustees, representatives of state officials, and David Slatery, Deputy Director of the Massachusetts Cultural Council (MCC), were among those attending.

Rita and Bill Collins Memorial Arts Scholarships were awarded to Emily Spalding (drama) first place, and Andrew Gomes (music) and Isabel Feudo (art) second place. Honorable mention recipient was Leila McIndoo (pastry art). The scholarships are given to one or more Framingham High School seniors who will be studying the arts as they continue on to higher education.   

The 2023 FCC Contributor of the Year award went to the Framingham Centre Common Cultural District in recognition of the innovative public art project, “Many Cultures, One Heart.” This collaboration among local organizations and businesses highlighted the diversity of the community through the creation of a series of colorful hearts placed conspicuously in various locations throughout the city. Teacher Susan Klein, M.A., received a Special Recognition Award for her lively and engaging classes in the Framingham Adult English as a Second Language Program and at other institutions in the area, where she has had a significant positive impact on countless learners seeking to build new lives for themselves here and in neighboring communities.

A number of representatives of organizations and individuals receiving grants from the FCC for FY23 enthusiastically described their various projects and graciously expressed their thanks. David Slatery of the MCC spoke about the significance of local councils in fostering an appreciation of the arts that so enrich the lives of residents. Congratulatory certificates from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts were presented to various awardees.

Entertainment was provided by scholarship winner Andrew Gomes, clown artist Bakie Bean (aka Nate Joslin of the FCC), and ventriloquist Kevin Driscoll, who was also a grant recipient. Refreshments were furnished by the Framingham Public Library, which hosted the event.