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For Immediate Release

Washington, DC — July 18, 2004 — Americans for the Arts today presented the 2004 Selina Roberts Ottum Award to Lynn Barnett, executive director of the Abilene Cultural Affairs Council, at its annual meeting in Washington, DC. The award recognizes the achievements of an individual who has made a meaningful contribution to the arts through local arts leadership.

“Whether it be planning a sculpture exhibition or calling for more funding, Lynn’s work has enhanced her community’s appreciation for the arts. She has an eye for innovative projects both large and small, and Abilene is richer for it,” said Robert L. Lynch, president and CEO of Americans for the Arts. “She is a standout talent in the field of local arts leadership.”

Barnett, a native of Massachusetts, has been in her post at the Abilene Cultural Affairs Council for 24 years where she leads a vibrant arts community. The Council offers performances, educational programs, and arts funding opportunities for the West Texas city of 110,000 residents. As executive director, Barnett has established the Center for Contemporary Arts, a children’s theater series, an outdoor sculpture exhibit, and numerous other programs. She was recently honored for her contributions to the arts by the city of Abilene.

She previously worked for the Texas Commission on the Arts (TCA) as a grants program associate, and has also served as a panelist for the National Endowment for the Arts and the TCA.

Barnett received her B.A. from Smith College and a Master’s in Management and Human Relations from Abilene Christian University.

Americans for the Arts is the leading nonprofit organization for advancing the arts in America. With offices in Washington, DC, and New York City, it has a record of more than 40 years of service. Americans for the Arts is dedicated to representing and serving local communities and creating opportunities for every American to participate in and appreciate all forms of the arts. Additional information is available at www.AmericansForTheArts.org.

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