Since 1987, the Board of Directors annually honors an individual who has demonstrated a sustained and extraordinary commitment to the organization.

Joel Ray is a long-time friend of VisArts, formerly sitting on its Board of Directors, serving as the Treasurer and Finance Chair, attending and supporting events like Craft + Design, and taking drawing and painting classes as a student. Joel has spent many years working at Davenport & Co. where he has held various roles, presently serving as a Senior Research Analyst.

Joel was an invaluable resource during his tenure on the board, helping to guide the organization as it weathered the COVID-19 pandemic and the financial hardship that it brought. He was known for being a positive and pragmatic force on this committee, balancing the importance of VisArts' mission with sound financial decision-making.

"Joel has always been an incredible advocate for VisArts," shared Executive Director, Jordan Brown. "He truly believes in the mission of this organization and understands the positive impacts of the arts in this community. He not only enjoys taking our classes and showing up to events with a smile, but he is also somebody I know I can rely on when I'm weighing a tough decision or trying to make plans for the future. He's the perfect example of what you hope for in a board member."

While he's no longer serving on the board, Joel continues to be a resource to the staff, offering his insight and expertise as well as volunteering his time to directly support fundraising.

Consider making a donation to the Visual Arts Center of Richmond in honor of this year's Distinguished Service Award recipient, Joel Ray. The Distinguished Service Award recognizes a longtime friend of VisArts who has demonstrated a sustained and extraordinary commitment to the organization. All donations are 100% tax deductible.

After making your donation, please click "Pay" and select "Click Here to Pay" to finalize your payment. You will receive a confirmation email once the payment is processed.