Winners of Black History Month Art Competition Announced

U.S. Cellular announced the three winners of its 2018 Black History Month Art Competition with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Peoria at a recent celebration. Tyranique White, age 12, was awarded first place for her portrayal of both poet Maya Angelou and singer, songwriter and record producer Alicia Keys; Demaria Ross, age 10, was awarded second place for her portrayal of Alicia Keys; and Aaron Rutherford, age 11, was awarded third place for his portrayal of civil rights activist Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. These young artists received a certificate and $250, $150 and $100 gift card prizes, respectively.

“We were impressed by the artwork created by the members of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Peoria for our first Black History Month Art Competition, and we were thrilled to celebrate with the winners,” said Carrie Guilliams, store manager for U.S. Cellular in Peoria. “It’s the perfect opportunity to acknowledge the talent of our youth by commemorating African-American icons that have influenced the course of history while celebrating the diversity of our country.”

The contest invited members of Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Peoria to create an original 8.5 x 11 piece of artwork in commemoration of influential African-Americans, including business people, sports figures, historical figures and celebrities. The 10 finalists’ art was displayed in U.S. Cellular stores during the month of February, where the Peoria community voted for their favorites. Votes from the three local U.S. Cellular stores were combined and tallied to determine the winner.

“Today is an exciting day for us,” added Jacobie Proctor, director of program development for Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Peoria. “We’re proud to partner with U.S. Cellular on this and many other projects at the club as we fulfill our mission to better the lives of children.”

U.S. Cellular’s Black History Month Art Contest is just another example of the company’s commitment to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Peoria. Since 2015, the wireless company has donated $30,000 to this local club, as well as 10, new LG G Pad tablets. Plus, associates continue to engage in ongoing volunteer opportunities that enable them to mentor and provide kids with hands-on learning experiences.