The Kimmie Award
The Kimmie Award was named after the 2001 Gold Medal winner and inaugural Kimmie award winner, Kim Michael Polote. The award distinguishes an individual for a special level of generosity, support or impact for the American Traditions Vocal Collection, or American music at large.
Kim Michael Polote accepts the 2023 Kimmie Award on behalf of her friend, and ATC founder, Elizabeth Oxnard at the 2023 ATC. Photo by John Carrington.
2023 Kimmie Award Winner: Elizabeth Oxnard (posthumous)
Our founder and matriarch, Elizabeth Oxnard was the intended recipient of our 2023 Kimmie Award, marking our 30th anniversary - a winning achievement for such a strong-willed and focused woman, but she unfortunately passed away ahead of our 30th competition on November 27, 2022. Her dear friend, Kim Michael Polote, accepted the award on her behalf, a reminder of when she received the award from Ms. Oxnard in 2017. Elizabeth will be forever missed and cherished by the organization she worked so hard to protect. Elizabeth was the 2023 recipient of the Kimmie Award.
Les and Kathie Anderson with 2022 Finalist, Lucy Yeghiazaryan. Photo by Stephen B. Morton.
2022 Kimmie Award Winner: Les and Kathie Anderson
Les and Kathie Anderson have been longtime supporters of the American Traditions Vocal Collection, each taking turns as board members, fundraisers, fans, and unforgettable members of our family. They have continued to support the ATC, even as their lives have moved them away from Savannah and we are forever grateful for their friendship. Kathie and Les were the 2022 recipients of the Kimmie Award.
David Shenton in a moment of joy. Photo by John Carrington.
2021 Kimmie Award Winner: David Shenton
David Shenton has been an ATC pianist for ten years and counting. He has given his time, energy, and brought his joy to each year he’s been with us in Savannah. A brilliant musician, composer, and arranger, he has worked with the best of the best, and we are so glad to call him our friend. David was the 2021 recipient of the Kimmie Award.
Dr. Allen Henderson, Susan Kleine, Kim Michael Polote and Founder Elizabeth Oxnard. Photo by John Carrington.
2020 Kimmie Award Winner: Susan Kleine
Susan Kleine has been an ATC board member, Board Chair and a tireless supporter with her volunteerism, her can-do attitude and her abundant generosity. Susan has relocated to Florida, but she will forever be a part of our ATC family. Susan was the 2020 recipient of the Kimmie Award.
David Friedman, professional image.
2019 Kimmie Award Winner: David Friedman
Broadway composer David Friedman is a phenomenal contributor to the canon of contemporary American song, and a friend to artists everywhere. A caring and compassionate person, he has created a program and a book following, called “The Thought Exchange.” Through this, he helps artists achieve their potential and rid themselves of the negative self-talk that plagues creatives and individuals at every level of success. David was the 2019 recipient of the Kimmie Award.
ATC Founder Elizabeth Oxnard and Kim Michael Polote at the 2017 Johnny Mercer Gala. Photo by John Carrington.
2018 Kimmie Award Winner: Kim Michael Polote
The namesake for the Kimmie Award, Kim Michael Polote is not only the first-ever honoree of this award, but the inspiration. Her tireless dedication to the ATC, her meaningful relationships with the community of Savannah, ATC audiences and our contestants each year make Ms. Polote an integral part of this organization. Beyond a kind and generous person, she is a highly talented vocalist and educator, having won the ATC in 2001 - the only Savannah native to have won the ATC. She actively advocates for music education, working with Gertsch in regional school systems, and spends her time mentoring Junior ATC singers and other young people throughout Savannah. Kim, we are so lucky to know you and live in your light. Kim Michael Polote was the 2018 recipient of the Kimmie Award.