Howard County Arts Council Board Member Earl Armiger Recognized by Community Foundation of Howard County

Orchard Development and Armiger Management, founded by Earl and Mary Armiger, was named Corporate Philanthropist of the Year by the Community Foundation of Howard County on Thursday, November 12, 2015 at its annual Celebration of Philanthropy dinner in Ellicott City. County Executive Allan Kittleman introduced the honorees to a sold-out crowd.

Orchard Development and Armiger Management are dedicated to giving back to the community and support more than 20 local nonprofits in Howard County including the Columbia Center for Theatrical Arts, Community Action Council, Howard Community College, Howard County Food Bank, and the Howard County Arts Council (HCAC). “Many individuals and organizations do so much to make our community vibrant and caring. We feel honored and privileged to support those efforts,” said Mary and Earl Armiger.

The purpose of the Foundation’s Philanthropist of the Year Award is to shine a light on the extraordinary generosity and leadership of philanthropists in Howard County and to recognize those who have shown exceptional leadership in the areas of philanthropy and who, through their giving, have made a remarkable difference in bringing about positive change in our community.

Mary and Earl Armiger have served on a number of boards, commissions and committees and have been strong advocates for education, affordable housing and the arts. Earl led the campaign to raise private funds to enhance the theater at Wilde Lake High School and make it available for use by community arts groups and the public – resulting in the state-of-the art Jim Rouse Theatre, which opened for community use in 1997. Earl joined the Arts Council Board in 2014. “The Arts Council’s stature as a model multi-purpose arts agency and advocate for the arts is due, in large part, to strong governance. Earl is a respected leader in the county and brings years of business acumen to our Board - we are fortunate to have such an insightful and experienced leader on board,” said Coleen West, HCAC Executive Director.

The Community Foundation of Howard County, which raises, manages and distributes funds to support Howard County nonprofits, recognizes Howard County philanthropists each year.

HCAC was established to serve the citizens of Howard County by fostering the arts. It is devoted to nurturing local artists and arts organizations, furthering the public’s appreciation of the arts, and ensuring that the arts are accessible - regardless of age, ability or economic status. To learn more, visit hocoarts.org.