The South Carolina Arts Commission Board named the Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum as the recipient of the 2013 Elizabeth O’Neill Verner Governor’s Award for the Arts in the Organization category. The Verner awards are the highest honors the state presents in the arts.

“It’s heartwarming to see such well-deserved recognition of our executive director, Patricia Goodwin, and her wonderful staff. Their dedication and love of the museum are reflected in every aspect of the operation of the museum and the quality of the programs offered to the community,” said John Stewart, chairman of the Board of Trustees for the art museum. “This award reflects the support that the museum receives from the city of Myrtle Beach and sponsors and members. Without their loyal support, none of this would be possible.”

The South Carolina Arts Commission is the state agency responsible for creating a thriving arts environment that benefits the citizens. Headquartered in Columbia, the group works to increase public participation in the arts by providing services, grants and artist development through state funds, the federal government through the National Endowment for the Arts, and other sources.

Throughout 2012, the art museum celebrated I Heart Art, a yearlong series of events designed to bring in new friends and funds for the museum. Events included several fundraisers, as well as a 9-hole mini-golf course over the summer.

Members of the art museum staff received the award at a ceremony in Columbia in May.