WMA is recipient of funds from annual Michelin Charity Golf Tournament

Museum will receive more than $77,000 from this year’s tournament

DOTHAN, Alabama – October 15, 2019 – The Wiregrass Museum of Art (WMA) is pleased to announce it was selected as one of ten organizations nationwide to receive proceeds from the 30th Annual Michelin Charity Golf Tournament, which was held October 7 in Greenville, South Carolina. WMA will receive tournament proceeds annually for a three- year period, with the amount determined by tournament proceeds in 2019, 2020, and 2021. This year, WMA will receive $77,469 and was the only arts organization selected to receive funding from the tournament.

WMA’s portion of the proceeds will be used to support the museum’s mission to inspire lifelong learning through the visual arts for Wiregrass residents and visitors. This charitable gift will strengthen operations, existing programs, and special projects at WMA. In addition to its current exhibition and program schedule, the museum plans to increase public programming that promotes access and equity across the community, to improve visitor experiences through technology, and will present community-centered events throughout the year. WMA will also use funds to continue its commitment to supporting pre-K-12 public education and providing lifelong learning opportunities for all residents of the Wiregrass.

In addition to receiving proceeds from the golf tournament, WMA will showcase the mission of the museum at awareness events and volunteer opportunities every year during the annual tournament.

“WMA is grateful for this new partnership with Michelin and we are looking forward to the opportunities that proceeds will provide over the next few years. This partnership will allow the museum to plan for future sustainability for the museum, and to move closer towards our vision of providing equitable access to the arts across our region,” says WMA executive director Dana-Marie Lemmer.

WMA is supported through diverse public and private funding, including charitable giving from the regional business community through 22 corporate members. Arts and business partnerships promote innovation and creativity in industry, economic development and stability, and recruitment and retention of young and established professionals.

“We hope money raised will continue to enrich the communities in which Michelin operates, the same communities where our employees and their families live.  Each year we are overwhelmed by the generosity of our sponsors and their willingness to support our selected charities,” said Mark Colby, Michelin’s purchasing manager of industrial supplies.

About the Wiregrass Museum of Art

The Wiregrass Museum of Art inspires a lifelong appreciation for the visual arts by providing innovative educational programs that engage diverse audiences through the collection and exhibition of quality works. Since its founding in 1988, WMA has offered educational programs, nationally-acclaimed art exhibitions and community events throughout the year. Its Board of Trustees guides the long-term vision and strategic goals, while its membership, City and County support, and grant funding provide the resources needed to fulfill its mission.