CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (Chambana Today) — Artists, educators, community leaders, and supporters of the arts filled City Center in Champaign last night as 40 North | 88 West hosted its annual ACE Awards, honoring six individuals and organizations whose work has strengthened and enriched the cultural landscape of Champaign County. The celebration, held Tuesday at 5:30 p.m., highlighted achievement across advocacy, artistry, education, volunteerism, business involvement, and lifetime contribution.
The ACE Awards — which stand for Arts, Culture, and Education — are presented each year to recognize those who have cultivated the arts through dedication, creativity, and community service. More than 95 nominations were submitted this year, reviewed by an independent panel representing a cross-section of Champaign County.
2025 ACE Award Winners
Advocate ACE Award – Kayla Brown
Brown was honored for her tireless support of musicians, artists, and makers throughout Champaign County. She helped grow Toast to Taylor Street from concept to reality, co-founded SoundBridge to strengthen opportunities for original local acts, and continues to provide space for artists through her business, Fire Doll Studio, which hosts intimate candlelit performances.
Artist ACE Award – Stacey Robinson
Robinson was recognized for his multidisciplinary work as a graphic novelist, DJ, curator, and professor, blending fine art and pop culture with what judges called “eloquence and ease.” His work remains both accessible and socially impactful.
Volunteer ACE Award – Anita Stein
Stein received the award for creating an inclusive theater experience for adults with disabilities at Champaign-Urbana Special Recreation. Her compassion and commitment have given dozens of performers a stage — and a spotlight — to be seen, heard, and celebrated.
Business ACE Award – The Space
The Space was honored for offering a welcoming venue where performers of all kinds — comedians, musicians, visual artists, and drag performers — can thrive. Its open mic nights and diverse programming have made it an essential home for local creatives.
Teacher ACE Award – Tamra Gingold
Gingold was celebrated for her student-centered approach to arts education and her role in creating Mariachi Tigres de Urbana and Mariachi Libertad. Judges praised her for using music as a tool for empowerment, belonging, and cultural connection.
Lifetime ACE Award – Tim Bartlett
Bartlett was honored for decades of contributions to public art and urban design, including helping establish the Wandell Sculpture Garden at Meadowbrook Park more than 25 years ago. During his tenure with the Urbana Park District, he championed collaboration and kept arts and culture at the forefront of public spaces.
Organizers emphasized that the awards exist to celebrate the community’s shared commitment to the arts — a commitment on full display at City Center last night.