The Arkansas Communication and Theatre Arts Association (ACTAA) is proud to announce the launch of a new recognition initiative—the Heart of ACTAA Award. This meaningful award was officially approved by the ACTAA Board of Directors during the Fall Conference held in September 2024.

The Heart of ACTAA Award will be presented annually, as deemed appropriate, to an individual or organization—whether a student, adult, or group—who is associated with a high school speech and debate or theatre program in Arkansas and who exemplifies the positive spirit and ideals that lie at the core of education-based arts activities.

"This award represents our commitment to not only celebrating excellence in performance and instruction, but also the compassion, resilience, and service that drive our programs," said Zackery Tucker, ACTAA President.

The award may be given in recognition of a singular act or a sustained effort. Examples of qualifying contributions include:

• Demonstrating exemplary "heart," sportsmanship, and/or citizenship in participation;

• Going above and beyond to assist others within the school or community;

• Overcoming adversity or a significant personal challenge.

In a significant extension of this recognition, the Heart of ACTAA honoree will also be nominated by ACTAA for the prestigious NFHS Heart of the Arts Award, a national-level honor bestowed by the National Federation of State High School Associations. Following the Fall Conference, ACTAA’s NFHS Liaison will work closely with the selected honoree to complete and submit the NFHS nomination packet.

The deadline to submit nominations for the Heart of ACTAA Award is July 31. Nominations are encouraged from ACTAA members and stakeholders, and the Nomination Committee will also consider the previous year’s Spirit of ACTAA honorees.

For more information about the Heart of ACTAA Award or to submit a nomination, please visit actaa.org/awards.

About ACTAA
The Arkansas Communication and Theatre Arts Association (ACTAA) is a statewide professional organization dedicated to the promotion and support of communication, speech, debate, and theatre arts education in Arkansas schools. ACTAA provides advocacy, resources, and recognition for educators and students working to advance these critical disciplines.