The Greater Augusta Arts Council proudly congratulates Dennis Skelley, President and CEO of Georgia Rehabilitation Institute, for being named one of the 2025 recipients of the Governor’s Awards for the Arts & Humanities a prestigious statewide honor recognizing individuals and organizations who have made significant contributions to Georgia’s cultural and community well-being.

On December 1st in Atlanta, Skelley was honored alongside nine others from across the state by Governor Brian P. Kemp and First Lady Marty Kemp.

Skelley’s longstanding commitment to inclusive arts and community development is well recognized. Under his leadership, Augusta’s first Public Art Master Plan was completed and GRI, the organization, has funded numerous public art projects throughout Augusta. Additionally, he has been instrumental in establishing the 523 Gallery, a dedicated public exhibit space amplifying work by artists with disabilities. Skelley also serves on the Board of the Greater Augusta Arts Council and the Augusta Public Art Advisory Panel helping to shape the arts and cultural identity of our city.

Joining Skelley in Atlanta to receive the award were Greater Augusta Arts Council Executive Director Denise Tucker, and GRI Board Chairman Brock Daniels, alongside Pax Bobrow of United Way of the CSRA. Their presence underscores the collaborative spirit and cross-organizational support behind Augusta’s growing arts and service community.

“We are deeply proud to celebrate this recognition and even more committed to building on his legacy through continued support for community arts, accessibility, and cultural development in Augusta.”

The Governor’s Awards for the Arts and Humanities, presented in partnership with the Georgia Council for the Arts and Georgia Humanities, highlight individuals and organizations whose long-term commitment, creativity, and community investment strengthen Georgia’s cultural landscape.

For more on the 2025 Governor’s Awards and a full list of honorees, please visit Georgia Council for the Arts.