Evelyn McGee Colbert Inspires Montclair Film’s New Award And ‘Visionary Fund’

MONTCLAIR, NJ — A new award and fund will honor a longtime Montclair supporter of the arts, Evelyn McGee Colbert.

Local arts nonprofit Montclair Film announced the launch of the Evelyn McGee Colbert Visionary Award and The Evelyn McGee Colbert Visionary Fund on Monday.

According to a news release from Montclair Film:

“In support of this new award and tribute event, the Evelyn McGee Visionary Fund will provide Montclair Film with the financial resources necessary to build programs that highlight and celebrate visionary leaders in our industry while building community, conversation, and connection through the art of storytelling. Additionally, this fund will position Montclair Film, and our region, as a leading destination for cinema artists.”

“While Colbert has stepped down as president of the board of trustees, she will remain a vital part of the future of Montclair Film in her new role as president emeritus and a member of the board’s executive committee,” the nonprofit said.

Colbert and her husband, Stephen Colbert, have been major boosters for the arts community in North Jersey, including the annual Montclair Film Festival, which is hosted by Montclair Film.

“Stephen and I established this Visionary Fund to create a financial reserve that will provide annual support to bring filmmakers and industry leaders to Montclair so that they can share their work, stories, and experience with our community” Colbert said.

“It is our goal to ensure that Montclair Film will continue to grow as a leading destination for cinema artists,” she added.

“Evie Colbert’s visionary leadership has defined the culture of our organization,” Montclair Film executive director and co-head Tricia Haggerty Wenz said. “She has led with a trust in and support for our team that has allowed us to grow beyond even our most optimistic dreams. But perhaps her greatest gift to Montclair Film is the generosity of spirit she has brought to each and every day. We are committed to making sure that her spirit endures.”

Learn more about the visionary fund or make a donation here.

• Related: Stephen Colbert Of NJ Wins Emmy Award After ‘Late Night Show’ Cancellation

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