WABASH, IN– Honeywell Arts & Entertainment recently nominated two team members for recognition by Arts United of Greater Fort Wayne. Kristi Unger, Director of Education at Honeywell Arts & Entertainment, and Susan Keefer, longtime volunteer and music educator, were selected to receive an Arts United Award acknowledging their leadership, accomplishments, and impact on students and the community.
Kristi Unger was named one of two recipients of the 2026 Margaret Ann Keegan Award, recognizing her
contributions to arts education. The award honors educators who have made a significant impact on arts learning, encouraged collaboration between schools and arts organizations, and increased awareness of the importance of the arts in education. As Director of Education, Unger leads Honeywell Arts & Entertainment’s comprehensive Arts In Education program, managing professional teaching artists, classroom curriculum integration, and partnerships with schools from Pre-K through 12th grade. Since joining the organization in 2017, Unger has expanded the program from roughly 48,000 student interactions across 14 counties to more than 73,000 student interactions in 2024-25. Her leadership has strengthened school partnerships, introduced new performance opportunities, and ensured all students, regardless of background or ability, have access to meaningful arts experiences.
Susan Keefer was named the recipient of the 2026 Outstanding Volunteer Award, recognizing her contributions to the arts through advocacy, ambassadorship, and volunteer work. Over 48 years, Keefer has coordinated the Wabash Valley Music Association Honors Band & Choir, served as Area IV coordinator for Circle the State with Song Festivals, mentored students for solo and ensemble contests and All-State auditions, and supported professional collaborations across the region. Her work has fostered student growth, broadened access to arts experiences, and inspired a lifelong appreciation for music and the arts.
“For 18 years, the Arts United Awards have recognized the people supporting our community through arts and culture,” said Arts United Vice President of Community Development Kody Tinnel. “The recipients exemplify the heart of the awards by making a significant impact through their work, contributing to a thriving northeast Indiana.”
The Arts United Awards annually recognize individuals, teams, projects, events, and organizations that have made artistic and cultural contributions to one or more communities across Northeast Indiana’s 12-county region, including Adams, Allen, DeKalb, Huntington, Kosciusko, LaGrange, Miami, Noble, Steuben, Wabash, Wells, and Whitley counties. The awards celebrate leadership, creativity, collaboration, and lasting impact across Northeast Indiana’s arts and culture community.
