On January 23, COCA hosted FLAME°, COCA’s annual appreciation event to celebrate members of the Richard Baron Leadership Circle (RBLC). The RBLC is a group of COCA’s most generous supporters whose contributions enable COCA to achieve its most ambitious goals and ensure that it remains an inclusive space where everyone can participate.
FLAME° also recognizes individuals who have made a significant impact in the arts and at COCA. Awards presented include the Ferring Award for Philanthropy, the Newell S. “Jim” Knight Volunteer Service Award, the Lee Nolting Students First Award, and the Distinguished Alumni Awards.
The FLAME° event was sponsored by J.P. Morgan Private Bank. The evening began with a reception featuring delicious food from Butler’s Pantry, an open bar provided by Anheuser-Busch, and personalized poems created by COCAwrites students using typewriter machines. As the reception concluded, attendees moved to the Catherine B. Berges Theatre for the program and awards presentation emceed by KMOV Reporter & Anchor, Damon Arnold.
Ferring Award for Philanthropy
The Ferring Award for Philanthropy honors individuals who have made significant contributions to positively impact arts accessibility.
Jennifer and Tom Hillman have been actively involved with COCA for over 30 years, beginning when they enrolled their children in COCA programs at a young age. They understand the profound impact the arts can have on people’s lives and have served on boards while advising on arts strategy. The Hillmans have provided scholarships to numerous students and later contributed to the expansion of COCA’s East Wing by funding the Hillman Studio.
Newell S. “Jim” Knight Volunteer Service Award
The Newell S. “Jim” Knight Volunteer Service Award recognizes individuals who have selflessly dedicated their time to volunteer for COCA.
Tracy “Cuppie” Chivetta has volunteered for many years on the decorating committee for our COCAcabana fundraising event. Cuppie has devoted herself to transforming the building into an incredible event space that aligns with the theme and stays within budget. She is passionate about this service and providing artistic accessibility to COCA’s students through events like COCAcabana.
Lee Nolting Students First Award
The Lee Nolting Students First Award not only recognizes exceptional teachers but also aims to inspire a legacy of commitment to the arts. Much like Lee Nolting, these educators prioritize their students’ growth and creativity, fostering an environment where artistic expression thrives.
Gina Bon-Perez, a cherished teaching artist at COCA has been a beacon of knowledge and inspiration for her students, transcending age barriers. She brings infectious energy and unwavering dedication to her teaching, ensuring that each student feels valued and motivated. Her profound impact on aspiring artists reflects the essence of what this Award represents—putting students first and helping them navigate their artistic journeys.
Distinguished Alumni Awards
The Distinguished Alumni Award, which recognizes COCA alumni who have made significant contributions to the arts, was awarded to three alumni. Each honoree will be featured on COCA’s Distinguished Alumni Wall, displayed in the Kuehner West Wing, inspiring future generations of COCA students by celebrating the artists who came before them.
Morgan Mizell is a professional dancer and founded the dance company Curtsy Ballroom. Louisa Rechter is a co-founder of the fashion company Mestiza New York. Laura-Bethany Strong is a professional dancer who has performed with pop legends such as Beyoncé, Janet Jackson, Lady Gaga, and more. Strong is also a writer, director, and choreographer.
Throughout the award ceremony, dance, theatre, and vocal performances showcased the talents of COCA pre-professional artists, alumni, and VarietySTL and COCA students. The event concluded with a reception after the award ceremony.
FLAME° serves as a powerful reminder of COCA’s mission to enrich lives through the arts, made possible by its unwavering support from the community.
Photos by Ann K Photography.
