2020 was the Inaugural year for the Leagy Awards, which were presented at the 2020 Biennial reception. The chapters’ awardees have made truly long-standing contributions to the WVA organization:
Northeast Chapter
Chris Style is our angel. Her mother led the organization for many years and Chris has continued that tradition through her mentoring new officers and steadfast commitment to our survival. She has been Chair of the Biennial numerous times, State Board President, Secretary, Historian, WVA representative to the WVAAA nomination committee, member of the Japanese Exchange, and led numerous initiatives including the drive to hire an Executive Director. We are forever thankful for this herculean effort.
South Central Chapter
Peggy Flora Zalucha was the WVA Treasurer for a decade and worked with Lee Holt to implement the Japanese Exchange. This international artist exchange involved coordinating multiple exhibitions throughout the state and arranging homestays for the visiting artists. In addition, there were daily activities to be scheduled. When we shipped work to Japan it was returned to Peggy’s studio in Mount Horeb. Peggy has been a member since 1985.
Southeast Chapter
Robert Ragir has been a long-time champion and supporter of Wisconsin Visual Artists through the Meyer and Norma Ragir Foundation held in care by the Greater Milwaukee Foundation. The Endowment Fund has allowed WVA to improve operations with an Executive Director position and continues to ensure WVA financial security through a challenge matching grant. So many of the offerings of WVA in service to members are made possible through Robert’s generosity, and we are grateful beyond measure.
