Baltimore, November 30, 2025
Six seniors from the George Washington Carver Center for Arts and Technology in Baltimore received national recognition in the YoungArts program. This prestigious honor highlights the school’s dedication to nurturing creativity and preparing students for future artistic success. With two winners distinguished at National YoungArts Week, the talents of these students underline the vital role of arts education in Baltimore’s vibrant community.
Baltimore Artists Shine as YoungArts Winners
Six George Washington Carver Center Students Earn National Recognition
Baltimore, Maryland – In an exciting testament to the artistic talents emerging from our city, six seniors from the George Washington Carver Center for Arts and Technology have been awarded honors in the prestigious 2026 YoungArts program. This recognition emphasizes the school’s commitment to fostering creativity and excellence while supporting the next generation of artists in Baltimore’s vibrant community.
The YoungArts program, which has been nurturing young talent since 1981, selects the most accomplished artists across the United States in visual, literary, and performing arts. This year marked a record-breaking number of applications, with over 700 students being honored. For the Carver Center, this accolade not only showcases individual achievement but also reflects the school’s dedication to equipping students for future success within their artistic pursuits.
Outstanding Achievements by Carver Center Students
The talented students recognized from the Carver Center include:
- Jada McAliley, visual arts, Winner with Distinction
- Therese Sheedy, visual arts
- Cailyn Sydnor, photography
- Kaleah Webb, visual arts, Winner with Distinction
- Alexis Bangud, drawing and illustration
- Derrian Bolden, photography
McAliley and Webb have earned the distinguished title of “Winners with Distinction,” granting them access to National YoungArts Week in Miami. This week-long program offers key workshops with renowned artists and collaborative opportunities, positioning these young creatives for extraordinary futures.
Impact of the YoungArts Program
Through this initiative, winners receive financial support ranging from $250 to $10,000, along with creative and professional development opportunities designed to help them flourish in their artistic careers. Beyond the monetary awards, participants also gain membership into a rich network of over 22,000 past YoungArts winners, providing invaluable connections as they navigate their journeys as artists.
George Washington Carver Center’s Commitment to Excellence
The recognition of these students stands as a powerful affirmation of the George Washington Carver Center for Arts and Technology’s commitment to providing a nurturing environment that encourages artistic exploration and personal growth. Such initiatives reinforce the notion that art education plays a crucial role in the broader scope of Maryland’s educational landscape—fostering not only individual achievement but also contributing to the richness of our cultural fabric.
Encouraging Future Generations
As these young artists celebrate their accomplishments, they inspire their peers and the larger community; their successes remind us of the potential that exists within Baltimore’s schools, artists, and entrepreneurs. By supporting local art programs and educational institutions, we can cultivate a generation ready to tackle the creative challenges of tomorrow.
How to Get Involved
For those looking to support local artists and the arts community, consider engaging with local galleries, attending performances, or contributing to art education programs. Each action helps to sustain the creative momentum that defines Baltimore’s artistic landscape.
Conclusion
The achievements of the Carver Center students in the YoungArts program bring pride to Baltimore, highlighting the importance of arts education in fostering innovation and creativity. As we celebrate these young artists, let us continue to champion the local culture and invest in the future of our community through support for arts education and entrepreneurship.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the YoungArts program?
The YoungArts program is a national organization dedicated to identifying and supporting the most accomplished young artists in the visual, literary, and performing arts. It offers financial awards and creative and professional development opportunities to students aged 15–18 or in grades 10–12.
What does it mean to be a “Winner with Distinction” in the YoungArts program?
Being named a “Winner with Distinction” is a special honor within the YoungArts program. It invites students to participate in National YoungArts Week in Miami, an all-expenses-paid program that includes intensive workshops with esteemed artists and the opportunity to collaborate across disciplines. High school seniors who are Winners with Distinction are also eligible to be nominated as U.S. Presidential Scholars in the Arts.
How many students were selected as YoungArts winners this year?
This year, over 700 students nationwide were selected as YoungArts winners, chosen from a record-breaking number of applications.
What are the benefits of being a YoungArts winner?
YoungArts winners receive financial awards ranging from $250 to $10,000 and are eligible for creative and professional development support throughout their careers. They also become part of an intergenerational network of more than 22,000 past award winners.
Key Features of the 2026 YoungArts Awards
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Number of Winners | Over 700 students nationwide |
| Financial Awards | Ranging from $250 to $10,000 |
| Special Honors | Winners with Distinction invited to National YoungArts Week in Miami |
| Eligibility for Presidential Scholars | High school seniors who are Winners with Distinction are eligible to be nominated as U.S. Presidential Scholars in the Arts |
| Institutional Recognition | George Washington Carver Center for Arts and Technology’s commitment to fostering artistic excellence |
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