2026 ACE Awards Celebration

The ACE (arts, culture, and education) Awards are presented annually by 40 North | 88 West and honor the work of artists, teachers, businesses, individuals, organizations, volunteers, community and government leaders. Each award highlights a different part of the cultural life of our community and celebrates those that, through hard work, dedication, and creative energy, cultivate the arts of Champaign County.
All ACE Award winners embody the spirit of the local arts community with their passion, energy, and dedication to the creative culture of Champaign County.
Please join us for the 2026 ACE Awards Celebration on Tuesday, December 8th, 5:30pm at City Center in Champaign in honoring their outstanding contributions!
The winners of the 2025 ACE Awards are:
Advocate ACE Award – Carrie Chandler
Artist ACE Award – Jose Vazquez
Volunteer ACE Award – Jacki Loewenstein
Business ACE Award – Flyover Film Studios
Teacher ACE Award – Pete Shungu
Lifetime ACE Award – Angela Rivers
The winners were chosen from over 80 public nominations by an independent panel of community-based judges.
Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door.