Hickory – Friends of Ridgeview Library, Hickory Museum of Art and Women’s Resource Center invite the community to join together at an Awards Program and Reception to celebrate and honor contributions by women around the world and in this region during International Women’s Day, Wednesday, March 8, in conjunction with Women’s History Month.

This celebration will be held from 6 to 7 pm at the Hickory Museum of Art on the SALT Block, 243 3rd Avenue NE, Hickory, in the Museum’s 2nd floor Coe Gallery.  Educator and community leader Billy Sudderth annually led the Women’s History Month anniversary programs in this community, including this year’s up until his death in October 2016. Sudderth selected the Museum as the site of this year’s event so it could be held in conjunction with the exhibition “WOMAN MADE”. This exhibit features over 100 artworks created by more than 80 artists represented in the Hickory Museum of Art’s permanent collection.

Guest speaker Dr. Vanessa Howerton, retired Grandview Middle School principal, will open the March 8th program by honoring Billy Sudderth, speaking of his dedication to an annual observance celebrating respect and appreciation of women for their educational, economic, political and social achievements.  Howerton will also speak about the importance of women’s leadership roles in the community while presenting words of encouragement to young women as they begin to chart their paths in life.

Following Dr. Howerton’s remarks, the 2017 Community Service awardees will be formally recognized. The awardees include: Dr. Patricia R. Johnson, Associate Superintendent of Caldwell County School District in Lenoir; Kay Ying Lo, Catawba County Schools Bilingual Resource Specialist with Catawba County Schools Newcomers Center; and Dr. Marion H. Love, retired Lenoir Rhyne University Professor Emeritus. Each of these outstanding individuals has made important contributions to the citizens of this community through their professional and volunteer leadership and generosity.

Because of limited seating, individuals who wish to attend this free program and reception are asked to RSVP by contacting the Hickory Museum of Art at 828-327-8576.

Hickory Museum of Art is located on the SALT Block, 243 3rd Avenue NE, Hickory. Admission is free. For more information about Museum exhibitions, art classes, field trips, and events, visit www.HickoryArt.org or call 828-327-8576.