Honoring the Leaders Who Shape Columbia's Cultural Landscape
The Stephen G. Morrison Visionary Award is back to celebrate the exceptional individuals whose leadership and vision have significantly enriched the arts, history, and cultural foundation of our city. We invite you to help us recognize those who inspire creativity and drive our community forward.
About the Award
The Stephen G. Morrison Visionary Award recognizes an individual whose outstanding vision and leadership have profoundly shaped the cultural fabric of Columbia. Presented by One Columbia for Arts and Culture, this prestigious honor is given to those who have made significant, lasting contributions to the city's arts and history.
Named for Stephen G. Morrison, an early and influential leader of One Columbia, the award celebrates his generous spirit and dedication to the city's vitality. Recipients embody a powerful combination of vision and leadership, using these qualities to foster creative social change and enrich our community. After a brief pause, the award returns to continue its tradition of honoring the dedicated individuals who make Columbia a more vibrant and culturally rich place to live.
Nominate a Visionary
Do you know someone whose work has made a lasting impact on Columbia's culture? We invite the community to submit nominations for individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and made significant contributions to the city's cultural landscape.
Nomination Requirements: To nominate an individual, please submit a formal nomination letter that provides specific examples of the nominee's impact and leadership capabilities. Tell us the story of their contribution and why they deserve to be recognized.
How to Submit: All nomination letters and any supporting materials must be submitted by email to info@onecolumbiasc.com.
Deadline for Nominations: February 28, 2026
Past Recipients
The Stephen G. Morrison Visionary Award has a proud history of honoring remarkable leaders. Previous recipients include a diverse group of artists, educators, and community builders who have left an indelible mark on Columbia.
- 2021: Morihiko Nakahara - Esteemed Music Director and Conductor of the South Carolina Philharmonic.
- 2019: Robin Waites
- 2018: Melanie Huggins
- 2017: Bobby Donaldson
- 2016: Terrance Henderson
- 2015: William Starrett
Help Us Celebrate Columbia's Cultural Champions
Your participation is essential to honoring the leaders who make our city thrive. Take this opportunity to shine a light on an inspiring individual whose dedication has strengthened our community.