Patricia O'Reilly*
Ikebana Service Award
US$ 500 Award
The Patricia O’Reilly Service Award recognizes outstanding commitment to ikebana through sustained volunteer service. It honors individuals whose contributions have strengthened ikebana organizations through dedication, integrity, and generosity of spirit.
The award celebrates those who, through unwavering support, organizational stewardship, and advocacy, have significantly advanced the promotion, growth, and vitality of ikebana. Embodying the highest ideals of service within the ikebana community their influence has extended far beyond the role of teacher.
Nomination Dates
Nominations will be accepted from February – April 2025.
The award celebrates those who, through unwavering support, organizational stewardship, and advocacy, have significantly advanced the promotion, growth, and vitality of ikebana. Embodying the highest ideals of service within the ikebana community their influence has extended far beyond the role of teacher.
Nomination Dates
Nominations will be accepted from February – April 2025.
Past Awardees
2026
STEPHANIE ENGLISH North & Central American Regional Liaison (2008-2024) |
2026
EMI KASAMATSU South American Regional Liaison (2016-2026) |
2025
RUSSELL BOWERS President & Conference Chair of NAOTA (2016-2024) |
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AWARD CRITERIA
Your nomination testimonial letter and detailed nomination letter should detail the value and impact of your nominee’s service contributions to the broader ikebana community, beyond teaching. Some of the examples of contributions to the ikebana community are listed below.
Your nomination testimonial letter and detailed nomination letter should detail the value and impact of your nominee’s service contributions to the broader ikebana community, beyond teaching. Some of the examples of contributions to the ikebana community are listed below.
- Sustained Service — a history of dedicated volunteer involvement supporting ikebana organizations at local, national, and/or international levels.
- Organizational Leadership — Active participation in committees, boards, and working groups that strengthen ikebana communities and ensure smooth operations.
- Event Stewardship — Consistent contributions to coordinating exhibitions, conferences, demonstrations, and cultural programs through planning, logistics, hosting, and behind‑the‑scenes coordination.
- Community Outreach — Promotion of ikebana in broader arts, cultural, and civic spaces, building bridges between ikebana organizations and the public.
- Mentorship & Support — Guidance and encouragement offered to new members, volunteers, and emerging leaders, fostering continuity and growth in the ikebana community.
- Inter‑school Collaboration — Volunteer work spanning multiple ikebana schools and associations, demonstrating commitment to unity and shared learning.
- Administrative Contribution — Sustained support with communications, record‑keeping, membership coordination, and organizational infrastructure.
- Cultural Preservation — Advocacy for the traditions, aesthetics, and values of ikebana through long‑term volunteer engagement.
- Innovation & Initiative — Introduction of new ideas, programs, or processes that enhance organizational effectiveness.
- Exemplary Commitment — A reputation for reliability, generosity, and willingness to serve wherever needed, embodying the spirit of ikebana through action.
Eligibility
Any organization may nominate only one volunteer from their organization each year. The nominee:
Any organization may nominate only one volunteer from their organization each year. The nominee:
- Must have served beyond simple membership in the organization.
- Must not have been a prior recipient of the award.
- Must have volunteered with the organization for at least five years.
Testimonials:
Selection Process
The Ikebana Iwaya Fund Board or a designated committee will review and select the award winner.
Award Date
The Patricia O’Reilly Award will be announced on June 1, 2025
- Minimum of two testimonial letters, from two different people.
- Maximum 700 words per letter.
- Writers should personally know the nominee and be able to speak to the value and impact of their achievements.
Selection Process
The Ikebana Iwaya Fund Board or a designated committee will review and select the award winner.
Award Date
The Patricia O’Reilly Award will be announced on June 1, 2025