Congratulations to our own Liz Warren, Director of the SMCC Storytelling Institute, who has received the 2014 NSN Western Region Service & Leadership Award! The institute won the award in 1996, but this tribute is specifically for Liz.
Doug Bland wrote these words about Liz:
Liz was one of the founders of and the primary genius behind the South Mountain Community College Storytelling Institute. For the past several years she has served as the Director of the Storytelling Institute. During that time the Institute has grown, the number of full time and adjunct faculty have increased and a number of creative programs have developed. She is a leader who inspires other leaders.
I know of no storyteller who is more consistent than Liz. She is money in the bank. Whether she is telling a personal anecdote over coffee, recounting an Irish folktale or regaling us with a Grail legend, her stories are high quality, artistic experiences. She combines the spiritual depth of a mystic, the good humor of a court jester, the insights of an experienced guide and the warmth of a caring fellow human being.
Past local winners of this award:
2009 - LynnAnn Wojciechowicz
2007 - Sean Buvala
2005 - Lorraine Calbow
1998 - Don Doyle
1996 - SMCC Storytelling Institute
The award will be presented at the 2014 NSN Conference in Phoenix (Mesa), Arizona, July 24-27.