The Wyoming Music Educators Association (WMEA) has presented its annual Meritorious Service Award to Camellia El-Antably, Deputy Manager and Arts Education Specialist for the Wyoming Arts Council.
Following is part of the narrative of the award which was presented at the All State Music Conference awards banquet in Cheyenne earlier this month:
"...She (Camellia) continually seeks to enhance and support the opportunities for arts education in Wyoming. Through her position with the WAC she has built relationships with organizations, associations and individuals in the artistic networks of the state and has had a positive impact on the membership of WMEA. She was instrumental in the implementation of the state Fine and Performing Arts Standards and has created professional development opportunities for art and music teachers statewide. Camellia is a true advocate for the arts. She maintains a strong relationship with the Department of Education, advocating for arts in the schools, providing technical assistance and managing the grants program.
WMEA has been well supported by Camellia through information she has provided the association. She has shared her expertise regarding the state standards, built networks with both music and art specialists and offered her help in whatever capacity is needed. Camellia believes 'that access to the arts for all ages is important' and she remains committed to working positions that create opportunities in the arts for the citizens of Wyoming. She is truly deserving of this recognition from our association."
One of the things that marks Camellia's service is her commitment to having a consistent and vigorous "presence" within all of the statewide arts education organizations' activities. Whether it be All-state Drama, the High School Visual Arts Symposium or All-State Music, she is always there, present and engaged. This award is certainly an acknowledgment of this aspect of her service as well.
