BOSTON, MA.- On May 23, 2011, the School of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston (SMFA), will honor Susan W. Paine with the SMFA Medal Award, which is presented annually to individuals who have made a significant and lasting impact on the art world. Susan, with her late husband Stephen D. Paine, has been instrumental in promoting contemporary art in Boston.

Susan is dedicated to supporting arts education through her involvement with numerous Boston-area institutions and is a friend and ally to artists, students and to the many arts professionals who work to ensure a vital cultural life for all.

The gala event—which includes cocktails, dinner award presentation and a silent auction of student work—will be held in the Ruth and Carl J. Shapiro Family Courtyard at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. Proceeds benefit scholarship and additional educational opportunities for SMFA students. The Medal Award is endowed through the generosity of Carol and Arnold Haynes.

About Susan W. Paine
Susan W. Paine and her late husband Stephen D. Paine have been instrumental in promoting arts, culture and education in Boston. They have long provided encouragement for emerging artists, seeking out works for their personal collection and supporting the Stephen D. Paine Scholarship, established in 1999 by the Boston Art Dealers Association, which supports students entering their final year in studio art programs at college in the city of Boston.

Susan is deeply involved in a wide range of institutions including roles as president, then chair of the board of trustees at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, during the museum’s recent campaign; trustee emerita of the Boston Athenaeum; formerly on the advisory council of the Boston Foundation for Architecture and trustee of the Boston Symphony Orchestra.