We have given a Friend/Volunteer of the Year award since 1993. The first year Volunteer of the Year awarded was for 1993, two years after the Friends of T.C. Steele was incorporated. That first year the award was shared by two couples, charter members who were instrumental in formation of the Friends organization and driving the success of the first project.
Several people have won Volunteer of the Year more than once, and there has been one organization that has won: a student group worked at the site several times during the year 1999 for a truly remarkable number of volunteer hours. There have also been a couple of years when two people shared the award, and three years (1996, 1997 and 1999) where no award was given.
Last year’s volunteer of the year was Kathy Truelove-Barton, a long-time historic site volunteer. While we like to focus on members-at-large, this year we are recognizing board president Garrett Adams as our recipient.
Garrett joined the board in March 2018 and has been the leader in designing the long-term strategy for sustainable success of the Friends organization. At a point in time when many not-for profits are struggling, Garrett has led the Friends through the challenging times of COVID and did not cancel a single board meeting, positioning the organization to remain viable today.
Garrett kept critical communication flowing, maintained relationships with other Friends groups, and remained in communication with our members through our newsletters. Equally impressive, Garrett led the organization through a new agreement with the Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites which provides for the continuation of the organization and improved collaboration with ISMHS.
Garret has led the organization to focus on four key products:
- Annual Member Art Show
- Annual Spring Wildflower Foray
- Virtual Gallery with Painting of the Month Showcase
- Scholarship at Herron School of Art and Design.
The newest key product, T.C. Steele Historic Trail (App) will be launched in late spring of this year.
His leadership, respect among the board and stakeholders, and ability to manage during challenging times is clearly recognized by all. Furthermore, he has led the implementation of many best practices that allow for significantly improved management and reporting for the organization, including the prestigious GuideStar certification.
As Garrett completes his last year as president, his contributions are recognized by this nomination and unanimous decision by the board of directors.
Congratulations Garrett!