Tara Thomas, director of Bemis School of Art at the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center at Colorado College, was awarded the Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region’s Community Support for Arts Education Award. Andy Vick, executive director of the Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region, presented the award to Thomas for her Art of Accessibility Project in April. The Art of Accessibility Project is an ongoing partnership program with The Independence Center. Thomas has helped more than 60 artists with disabilities share their stories, vision, and creations. She’s also added better accessibility to art classes, including a more accessible pottery wheel.

“Her work enables artists to turn their creativity into advocacy, plus creates an economic benefit,” Vick says. “Tara has made accessibility for people with disabilities a priority now and in Bemis’ long-term strategic plan.”