Nominations accepted until August 1 for annual celebration; 2025 includes launch of new Arts Legacy honor
Saint Paul, Minnesota (May 15, 2025) — The Ordway Center for Performing Arts today announced that the nomination period is now open for the 28th Sally Awards, celebrating Minnesota’s most visionary artists, educators, leaders and changemakers who strengthen the state’s cultural fabric through their dedication to the arts. This year’s awards mark a return of the program for the first time since 2019 and introduce a new Arts Legacy Award, which is a special recognition honoring enduring contributions to the arts and community. Nominations will be accepted through Aug. 1, with winners announced virtually in January 2026.
“For over three decades, the Sally Awards have celebrated the extraordinary individuals and organizations who make Minnesota a beacon of culture, creativity, and connection,” said Christopher Harrington, president and CEO of the Ordway. “As we celebrate our 40th anniversary this year and introduce the new Arts Legacy Award, we honor not only the transformative work happening today but also the timeless contributions that shape our artistic heritage. These awards are a testament to the power of the arts to inspire, educate and unite us all.”
Established in 1992, the Sally Awards have recognized more than 100 individuals and institutions for their commitment to advancing arts access, education and innovation across Minnesota. The Sally Award is based on the “First Trust Award” presented in 1986 to Sally Ordway Irvine, whose initiative, vision and commitment inspired the creation of the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts.
“My mother dedicated her life to ensuring the arts were accessible to all—that they are a source of joy, education and connection for everyone,” said Jill Irvine Crow, daughter of Sally Ordway Irvine and member of the Ordway President’s Advisory Council. “These awards carry forward her belief that creativity knows no boundaries. I am endlessly proud to see the Ordway honor leaders who, like her, break down barriers and ignite passion for the arts in communities across our state.”
2025 Sally Award categories:
Arts Access: Recognizes extraordinary efforts that make the arts accessible to all Minnesotans, regardless of economic, geographic or demographic barriers.
Arts Learning: Honors those who provide exceptional arts education opportunities and contribute to the growth and development of future artists and arts enthusiasts.
Arts Leadership: Celebrates individuals or organizations whose artistic excellence and steadfast leadership make significant contributions to their communities and the broader arts landscape.
Arts Vision: Recognizes creative visionaries whose bold ideas and innovative spirit create transformative arts experiences.
Arts Legacy (new in 2025): Honors extraordinary individuals or organizations whose enduring contributions have profoundly impacted the arts and community.
Nominations will be reviewed by a committee of arts professionals, educators, past recipients, and representatives from the Ordway and the Minnesota State Arts Board. The Arts Legacy Award operates outside the standard nomination process, with recipients chosen directly by the Ordway’s leadership team. Winners receive an award and $1,500 each.
To nominate someone or to learn more about the Sally Awards, the full nomination process, and eligibility guidelines, visit Ordway.org/About/Sally-Awards.