Three Alpine School District educators have received 2026 Beverley Taylor Sorenson Legacy Awards for Excellence in Arts Education, recognizing their impact on students and arts education across Utah. Elizabeth Ludwig and Cheri Pitcher were honored for excellence in secondary arts instruction, while Dr. Vallen Thomas received the Exemplary Arts Education Administration – District award for leadership supporting arts education throughout Alpine School District. The awards were presented in May 2026.
The Beverley Taylor Sorenson Legacy Award for Excellence in Arts Education honors outstanding arts educators and leaders from across the state. According to Liz Bunker of the Utah State Board of Education, the award “truly just represents the best in arts education in the entire state.”
“Honestly, it just feels like recognition at the start of a journey,” said Elizabeth Ludwig, theater arts teacher at Lakeridge Junior High. “I don't feel like I've arrived… it's also the culmination of just so many people's efforts and students who are willing to try new things.”
Ludwig said arts education prepares students for success in every aspect of life. “It promotes working with others, building community, and learning how to work towards a common goal with people that are different,” she said.
Cheri Pitcher, visual arts teacher at Mountain Ridge Junior High, described the recognition as deeply meaningful. “This award means so much to me, I have worked so hard to improve my practice each year,” she said. “Every teacher deserves to be validated for the impossible, invisible and miraculous work they do each day.”
Pitcher also highlighted the creativity and energy of middle school students. “These kids are trying so hard… they are excited and motivated and have unbelievable energy,” she said. She added that students who engage deeply in the arts create “highly meaningful work that connects with people of all ages.”
Dr. Vallen Thomas, Director of Educational Services, was recognized for his leadership in strengthening arts education across the district through collaboration, professional development, and support for teachers and students.
“Vallen gets the big picture of how the arts can bring well-being to students, and he has been very instrumental in helping provide systems of support for those teachers to be able to do their job more effectively,” said Bob Smith, Beverley Taylor Sorenson Arts Integration Coach for Alpine School District. “His understanding of arts integration, as well as the power of the arts just to benefit the lives of students, is awesome.”
Smith said the Beverley Taylor Sorenson Arts Learning Program is committed to ensuring students have access to meaningful arts instruction. “It is some really deep and meaningful learning through creative integration,” he said.
Bunker also praised Alpine School District’s commitment to the arts. “Alpine's just an amazing district and their support with the arts is great,” she said.
Together, these recognitions highlight Alpine School District’s commitment to student-centered experiences and strong professional capacity in the arts.