SYRACUSE, NY.- The Everson announced that Syracuse University Chancellor and President Nancy Cantor will be the recipient of the 2009 Everson Medal. The medal will be awarded at the Annual Everson Picnic, June 18, 2009 at 6 p.m. on the Everson Community Plaza.

Chancellor Cantor was selected for this award because she sees “the creative campus everywhere,” not only on the Hill, but extending across downtown. The Warehouse, an accomplishment of her first year, included the Everson Teen Art Gallery and Studio in the plan. It was to provide the first physical means of connecting not only with the Everson, but with all of the downtown arts organizations. This led to one of the greatest manifestations of Chancellor Cantor’s vision: the Connective Corridor, an urban strip from the University to Armory Square that showcases the arts and cultural assets of Syracuse.

“The Museum is pleased to award Chancellor Nancy Cantor with the 2009 Everson Medal, which recognizes those who have shaped Syracuse and Central New York through their gifts of leadership and strong conviction that arts and creative expression enhance our quality of life, “ said Steven Kern, Everson Director. “Chancellor Cantor’s vision, accomplishments and contributions to our community have been transformational and are at the core of the current transformation of Syracuse, where arts, culture, and higher education are coming together to reinvent the city.”

The Everson Annual Summer Picnic is made possible by honorary chairperson Jim Ridlon, chairpersons Patricia Numann, MD and Fouad Hussein, and Everson Director Steven Kern.

Reservations are required to participate in this memorable arts inspired evening. Tickets are available for $200 per person. Tables, advertising and sponsorship opportunities are available. As one of the Everson’s most important annual fundraisers, proceeds from the Picnic directly benefit the Museum’s special exhibit and education programming. To make reservations call (315) 474-6064.