Cheryl Miller Taustin knew that we are not the sum of our productivity or our job but the strength of our integrity, creativity, and our voice. And she graced so many with hers. As a touring cabaret singer, she travelled to nightclubs and restaurants adorning the space with the standards, Broadway classics, and popular hits of the era. It was on her stop at the Embers Restaurant in Ocean City where she met her husband, Jay Taustin, and grew roots from which she raised three children. Until her last day, she played pickle ball, took art classes, sang, and rode horses. She advocated for the arts, the environment, for equal rights, animal protection, and love – for everyone. She made her opinions known and served as an inspiration and fierce advocate for causes that celebrate living. Cheryl advocated for graciously and peacefully living life. Cheryl was an active player in life who made resounding entrances and profound exits.
Cheryl built community as a founding member of Temple Bat Yam, where she served as a cantorial soloist for over 30 years. Her voice calling us to be present, give back, and perform acts of love and kindness. Her voice will forever reverberate in the recesses of our hearts, and her name will be forever synonymous with celebrating life through artistry.
The Cheryl M Taustin Fellowship for Creative Leadership recognizes artists, educators, and mentors of any arts medium who demonstrate a synchronicity with Cheryl’s commitment to causes of social justice, uplifting the unheard voice, and valuing community and thought-provoking artistry. Exemplified through daring leadership, innovative viewpoints, and generative progress, fellows carry forward Cheryl’s legacy of cultivating a more beautiful and more empathetic community through the arts.
Eligibility: Nominees may include artists, arts educators, creative mentors, or performers. Any arts medium may be considered eligible so long as that work directly impacts the Delmarva Region and the representative demonstrates a commitment to the values and priorities of Cheryl including art, arts education, leadership and community mindedness, environmental consciousness, and social justice.
Fellowship:The fellow receives a $1,500 stipend and will create a piece of artwork to be presented to their successor.
Selection Process: Nominees will be selected by a committee of local artists and leaders and will include a minimum of one descendant of Cheryl Taustin.
Rolling Deadline.