PORT ANGELES — Peninsula College’s Kate Reavey has been named one of 50 recipients of the Humanities Washington Award in celebration of the organization’s 50th anniversary.
Also receiving awards were Chemakum Elder Rosalee Walz and Chimacum’s Empty Bowl press.
Reavey, a professor of humanities, literature, creative writing and composition, and coordinator for Studium Generale, has taught at the college since 1993.
She holds a doctorate in interdisciplinary studies from Union Institute & University.
“I am honored to receive this recognition, and I am grateful for the humanities as the discipline which has shaped my teaching and learning,” Reavey said in a statement.
“As an instructor, I am not interpreting words, ideas, languages, arts, and cultures. Rather, I can bring primary sources into the center of the learning — not only sharing the mic with many voices but encouraging dialogue and further engagement. This means that we are able, as students and teachers and often community members, to co-create the learning together.”
According Humanities Washington, “the award recognizes outstanding contributions to the public humanities — people and organizations who bring new stories to light, connect their communities, and encourage us all to think, reflect, and learn.”
Ten awards were given in five geographic regions across the state.
Honorees included authors, community leaders, historical societies, museums, philanthropists and scholars.
Humanities Washington usually presents two awards annually.
This year the nonprofit expanded the number to 50 in honor of its half-century of supporting public humanities programs and events.
Reavey and the other award recipients will be honored at an online celebration on Dec. 10.
Each will receive a $1,000 award funded through a gift from the Frank family of Yakima in honor of Heather and Herb Frank.
