Boise Philharmonic musicians play stringed instruments.

Together with Boise Mayor Lauren McLean, the Boise City Department of Arts & History is thrilled to announce the recipients of the 2025 Mayor’s Awards for Excellence in Arts & History.
 
The 2025 Awardees are:
 
Excellence in the Arts

  • Ballet Idaho – Professional Ballet Company
  • Frank Goitia – Visual Artist, Painter
  • Serenata Orchestra – Community Orchestra

 
Excellence in History

  • Gwyn Hervochon – Associate Professor and Archivist, Albertsons Library, Boise State University

 
Excellence in Education

  • Alex Sjobeck, Derek Ganong, and the Gene Harris All-Stars Jazz Program at Boise State University – After-school program designed for high school students

 
Support of the Cultural Sector

  • Skip and Esther Oppenheimer – Community Members

 
Emerging Artist

  • Hallie Maxwell – Interdisciplinary Artist

 
Lifetime Achievement

  • Mark Hofflund – Managing Director, Idaho Shakespeare Festival


The 2025 Awardees will be honored on Thursday, September 18, 2025, at 6 p.m., at Jack’s Urban Meeting Place (JUMP) located in downtown Boise.
 
On the same evening, Mayor McLean will announce the next City of Boise Cultural Ambassador for 2026 and 2027. Learn more.
 
Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available for purchase online here.
 
About the Mayor’s Awards for Excellence in Arts & History
Presented every two years, the Mayor's Awards for Excellence in Arts & History celebrate people, organizations, and businesses that contribute to Boise's creative and cultural community. Award recipients must have demonstrated distinguished service, creative accomplishment, and a record of publication, presentation or research that enhances Boise's artistic, historic, and broader cultural life. More information: boiseartsandhistory.org/MayorsAwards
 
About the Boise City Department of Arts & History
The Department of Arts & History is Boise’s local cultural agency dedicated to fostering a sense of belonging through accessible and place-based arts and history. Our mission is to cultivate a distinct sense of place which reflects Boise’s rich past, diverse communities, and unique natural setting. Our operations empower and serve Boise residents as we create opportunities that nurture and sustain Boise’s past and its creative economy. More information: boiseartsandhistory.org

Jennifer Yribar, Communications Manager jyribar@cityofboise.org 208-608-7051