National Society of Arts and Letters Presents AZ Awards

The National Society of Arts and Letters, Greater Arizona Chapter honored Carol Schilling with The Medallion of Merit for her many contributions to Ballet Arizona. The award was presented by Dorothy Lincoln Smith, past national president of the Society at its Career Awards Dinner on March 19 at Paradise Valley Country Club.

Additional honorees are Andrew Needhammer, Arts Advocate; Gia Firicano, Arts Educator; and Lisa Chow, Community Advocate. Each was awarded based on their impact on dance in Arizona.

The evening also included performances by the organization’s 2017 Career Awards finalists in classical ballet. Juliette Doherty won first place and will represent Arizona in the national event in Florida in early June.

PHOTOS BY DEANNA DENT