EMP Museum’s education programs are quietly using rock-and-roll to have quite an impact in our community. And not just rock-and-roll either. The education programs at EMP include the rock music-based learning you might expect, but also include training and mentoring for all music performance types from choirs to chamber music. There are also leadership opportunities, access to the incredible museum collection, and partnerships with other mission-based organizations. Their partnership with University of Puget Sound resulted in an ongoing program that brings youth with autism into the museum to be engaged and inspired.
The 2012 Founder’s Award was focused on these important education programs and also honored this year’s awardee, Carlos Santana, who has been an inspiration to generations through his music. In light of the evening’s education and community focus, Mr. Santana fit right in with his long-standing commitment to benefiting underserved and vulnerable children around the world through his Milagro Foundation.