Batesville Area Arts Council Raises Over $12,000 at Annual Summer Celebration

The Batesville Area Arts Council (BAAC) hosted its annual Summer Celebration fundraiser on Saturday, June 28, at The Loft on Main Street, generously presented by First Community Bank. This year’s theme, Bringing BAAC Prom, turned back the clock for a night of nostalgic fun and community spirit — and raised over $12,000 to support local arts programming.

“Bringing BAAC Prom was an unforgettable night for BAAC,” said Abby Perrine, President of the BAAC Board of Directors. “The community showed an incredible amount of support for our organization — and had a blast while doing so!”

Guests enjoyed a delicious dinner catered by The Station and danced the night away with live music by Luke Middleton and Trevor Graddy. DJ Colyn Bowman kept the energy high and the dance floor full. A silent auction featured original artwork from local artists and unique experience packages donated by downtown Batesville businesses.

One of the evening’s highlights was the crowning of this year’s Prom Royalty: Edmond Hetrick and Trevor Graddy. Attendees nominated themselves or friends for Prom King or Queen and voted by donating to BAAC, raising over $1,000 through this fun and impactful campaign.

During the event, Executive Director Carly Dahl and Board President Abby Perrine also announced the 2025 BAAC Board Member of the Year — Victoria Hutcheson. “Victoria has been a dependable and enthusiastic board member,” said Dahl. “She’s led workshops at our new Work/Shop on Main, represented BAAC at a Mayor’s meeting, and is a constant presence at gallery receptions and events.”

BAAC extends heartfelt thanks to its Summer Celebration sponsors for their generous support, including:
First Community Bank, Bad Boy Mowers, Citizens Bank, Lyon College, Precise, Spartan Mowers & ATVs, Merchants & Planters Bank, and Batesville Printing.

Together, the community continues to make a lasting impact on the arts in Batesville.