Margi Roush wins state hospitality award

Huntington, Ind. Margi Roush, director of the community arts program at Huntington College, has been selected to receive the Lieutenant Governor's "Enjoy Indiana" Hospitality Award. Hon. Joe Kernan will visit the Huntington campus on May 6 to present her with the award. The ceremony will begin at 2:45 in the upper lobby of the Merillat Centre for the Arts. The presentation coincides with National Tourism Week.

Margi is among only 28 recipients state-wide. No more than one person is chosen from each county. "This is a very significant honor for Margi personally, and for the Merillat Centre's public programming," said college spokesman John Paff.

Annually, the Merillat Centre for the Arts presents a wide variety of programs for the entire family. On May 13, for example, the Merillat Centre will feature The Tommy Dorsey Orchestra, one of the greatest dance bands in American music history. The concert is underwritten by The Banks of Huntington County (Bippus State Bank, First Federal Savings Bank,First National Bank of Huntington, Norwest Bank and State Bank of Markle). For further information about this event, or other performances at the Merillat Centre for the Arts, call (260) 359-4241 or visit the Merillat Centre online at http://www.huntington.edu/mca/

Below are some comments excerpted from Margi's nomination documents:

What people say about Margi Roush...

"Margi Roush has been a tireless and enthusiastic volunteer for Huntington's annual summer festival, Heritage Days. The quality of her commitment was evidenced when an entry involved with the festival promotional brochure didn't come through. She went to work, spending a consecutive seven to eight hours fulfilling their obligation."

--Barbara Hancher, President

Huntington County Chamber of Commerce

"I consider her the best ambassador for Huntington College. She strives to bring quality arts programs to Huntington College and Huntington County as well. She integrates the Huntington College arts program into Huntington County at large. She works tirelessly at her position as Director of the Community Arts Program. It always makes my day better when I spend some time with her."

--Marcia McClelland, Executive Director

LaFontain Arts Council

"Margi enthusiastically accommodates groups and individuals -- keeping a balance between the College's needs and the needs of the community. Her positive promotion of the community enriches daily life."

--David Schenkel, President

Huntington County Tourism Commission

"I have hosted many visitors to the community. Whether it be a Rotary Group Study Exchange from Japan or United Technology employees from Brazil, I always put Margi and the Merillat Centre on the itinerary. She is a wonderful host -- giving guests a "behind-the-scenes" look at the stage, dressing rooms, and sound booth. She also travels to the airport to pick up performers and makes arrangements for their stay. Many of these performers -- performers who have played all over the world -- have remarked at how comfortable and welcome they feel during their stay in Huntington. Margi's attention to the performer's needs has everything to do with their favorable experience. Not only is the Merillat Centre and incredible showpiece for a community this size, Margi is an invaluable ambassador."

--Steve Carender, Executive Director

Huntington County Visitor and Convention Bureau