Regardless of their profession, people like to be recognized by their peers for the work they do in their field of endeavor.

When that recognition is statewide, it means someone has gone over and above in their efforts and become one of the best in their area of expertise.

That’s why the recent of announcement of Vicksburg resident Randy Jolly’s selection as Museum Art Educator of the Year is so special.

The award is presented annually by the Mississippi Art Educators Association, an organization of art educators who are passionate in their commitment to the necessity of art in developing creative processes that benefit all students.

“This was exciting and not expected,” said Jolly, who is the director of the Gore Gallery at Mississippi College in Clinton.

“It is so nice when your peers, who are all art educators, nominate and vote for you, because when your peers say you are doing a good job, it makes you feel really good,” he said, adding that it was also nice to be recognized for the work that is being done at Mississippi College.

Jolly has long been an active force in Vicksburg’s art community.

His influences locally have included serving on the board of the Vicksburg Art Association and teaching in the Vicksburg public schools. For many years, he offered a summer art program geared for children and was named Elementary Art Educator of the year.

And while Jolly’s impact and leadership in Vicksburg still remains, he has for the past 10 years been serving as the director of the Gore Gallery, where he serves as an influence to others.

“It is our mission at the Gore Gallery to be an educational museum. We plan our program around programs and shows that enhance our exposure for our students at the University as well as the community, and it was really exciting that we were being recognized for that,” Jolly said.

It’s good to see someone like Jolly be honored for his work in creating an atmosphere where people can become better educated about art and he can influence aspiring artists to follow their dreams.

The fact that he is a local resident makes the honor even more special.

We want to congratulate Randy Jolly on being recognized by his peers. It is a well-deserved honor for a very special individual.