Gator on the Bank by James Finch, 2021 recipient
The Community Foundation for Brevard is proud to announce the 2026 recipients of the Nancy Baur Dillen Art Teacher Scholarship, continuing a decade-long commitment to supporting excellence in arts education throughout Brevard County. Since 2016, the program has awarded 57 scholarships to 44 Brevard Public Schools art educators.
Founded by artist and retired Eastern Florida State College professor Nancy Baur Dillen and her late husband Rick, the scholarship reflects Nancy’s enduring passion for uplifting artists, shaped by her own experience teaching and mentoring. The award provides funding for recipients to attend a weeklong immersive workshop of their choice at the nationally acclaimed Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Through intensive, hands-on instruction and collaboration with fellow creatives, local teachers refine their skills and explore new techniques, returning to their classrooms energized with ideas that enhance student learning and expression.
“The heart of this scholarship has always been about investing in teachers,” said Nancy Baur Dillen. “When educators are given the time and space to grow creatively, that inspiration carries directly into their schools and elevates the experiences of their students. Seeing this impact continue year after year is incredibly rewarding.”
The Community Foundation for Brevard is honored to recognize the 2026 Nancy Baur Dillen Art Teacher Scholarship recipients:
- Alison Biddle, Westside Elementary School
- Kevin Cook, Viera High School
- Angela Holland, Lewis Carroll Elementary School
- Lauren Sorey, Merritt Island High School
- Kathryn Stepnicka, Palm Bay Magnet High School
In addition, James Finch of West Shore Jr./Sr. High School, a 2021 scholarship recipient who was unable to attend his workshop at that time, will be joining this year’s cohort to complete the immersive experience.
Expressing his gratitude, Kevin Cook shared, “This scholarship comes at a meaningful moment in my artistic, personal, and professional life. I believe deeply in the power of listening, sharing, and learning in community and this opportunity supports my desire to grow in relationship with other artists.”
Collectively, this year’s participants teach an estimated 2,242 students, underscoring the far-reaching and compounding impact of empowering art educators. By supporting teachers at pivotal moments in their development, the scholarship helps sustain creative thinking into students’ lives and careers.
Teachers interested in applying for the Nancy Baur Dillen Art Teacher Scholarship are encouraged to visit this page for more information.
