The Woodlands Arts Council Awards $40,000 in Student Art Scholarships to 14 Local Seniors

THE WOODLANDS, TX -- The Woodlands Arts Council (TWAC) proudly awarded $40,000 in Student Art Scholarships to 14 graduating seniors from The Woodlands and Montgomery County, supporting their pursuit of higher education in the visual, literary, and performing arts.

The scholarships were presented during the Student Art Scholarship Program Anthology Reveal Party held on March 26 at The Woodlands Arts Council. Students, families, and educators from participating schools attended the event to celebrate this year’s recipients. The event highlighted the creativity, dedication, and artistic excellence these students demonstrated as they prepare to take the next step in their academic journeys.

“Every great work of art begins with a dream, and we are proud to support students as they turn that spark of imagination into opportunity,” said Nancy Charbonneau, Because Art Matters (BAM) Committee Chair and TWAC Board Secretary. “These scholarships recognize the role art plays in these students’ lives and empower them to continue developing their voices and chasing their dreams.”

For over two decades, the Student Art Scholarship Program has been a cornerstone of TWAC’s mission to provide cultural and educational enrichment opportunities. Guided by the BAM Committee, the program continues to grow in impact while remaining rooted in its purpose of supporting young artists. To date, TWAC has awarded 296 scholarships to graduating seniors across Montgomery County.

Beyond financial support, the program provides students with opportunities for recognition and professional exposure. The works from the 2026 scholarship recipients are featured in the Student Art Scholarship Program Anthology and will be on sale at The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival, offering the public a chance to admire and support the talent and vision of these emerging artists.

2026 Student Art Scholarship Recipients are: Avery Bennett, Ana Henners-Grainger, Madeline Rice, Iris Shen, Ashley Castille, Amelia Loftis, Alison Mitton, Andrea Shi, Elva Yu, Sophia Wardsworth, Jordan Sheirr, Aidan Gerungan, Sophia Moser, and Leah Swart.

Funds for this program are generated through TWAC’s events, memberships, and donations, with primary support coming from The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival. The festival’s kick-off event, The Art Dash Party, plays a vital role, as all ticket proceeds directly benefit the Student Art Scholarship Program and other outreach initiatives.

The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival will take place April 10–12, 2026. For tickets and more information, visit: ttps://www.thewoodlandsartscouncil.org/p/buytickets