As part of the Hutchinson Center for the Arts annual meeting, the board recognized Valerie Macken-thun as its Wirt Award recipient.
Vice president Risner described Mackenthun as a “longtime, and often behind-the-scenes, supporter of the vibrant arts programming that exists in Hutchinson.”
Mackenthun is a familiar face at community events such as RiverSong Music Festival, Historic Hutchinson Living History tours, Music in the Park and Hutchinson Public Library activities.
Risner pointed out that Mackenthun is not only in attendance at local art events, but offers her time and talents in a support role.
“No job is too large or small for Valerie to offer her aid,” Risner said. “She can be found hauling extra chairs from Art’s Place over to the HCA to make sure that the theater company’s audience has enough seating, giving feedback and advice when organizations are planning fundraisers and events, spending her time on committees and boards for events such as RiverSong, and everything in between.”
Mackenthun shared her thoughts about the Wirt Award and volunteering in this Leader Q&A.
What does receiving the Wirt Award mean to you?
I grew up in a military family and we moved around a lot. My first real sense of community came after I moved to Hutchinson. I started going to local art, history and music events and became invested. It feels incredible to receive an award for spending time with my favorite people doing what I love. It has made me think a lot about volunteering, community and my purpose. I feel honored by those that nominated me, the HCA board and the messages of congratulations.
What local organizations are you involved with — RiverSong Music Festival, Historic Hutchinson and Music in the Park — any others?
Yes, those are three of my favorites to be a part of. They are intertwined in my life. My mom and daughter both help out with Historic Hutchinson. My family hardly ever misses Music in the Park, and we schedule our summers around RiverSong and the Minnesota Pottery Festival. I’m helping out with a few new organizations this year, too.
Why do you volunteer and support local arts organizations and events?
I share my time and energy with Hutchinson art organizations and events mostly because I like it. A close second would be the connections local arts and volunteering have brought into me and my family’s life. I also see the positive impacts of local arts on our economy.
What do the arts bring to Hutchinson?
Connection. Art brings people together, starts meaningful conversations and creates shared experiences.
Why should folks support the arts?
There are so many groups that need our community’s support. Volunteering is one way to help but so is attending events and shows. It is another way to shop local. Folks should support the artists in Hutchinson because they are our friends and neighbors.
