The award is named in honor of Marcia Webb Dort, wife of automotive pioneer and philanthropist, J. Dallas Dort. Mr. and Mrs. Dort’s passion, influence and patronage were instrumental in establishing a thriving arts and music community in Flint.

Mrs. Dort was known for her tireless volunteer work and support of the Flint Institute of Music which inspired the very first Mrs. J. Dallas Dort Award given in 1979 to Mrs. Mili LeMieux. Every year since we have recognized people who have given substantial personal time toward the successful development of the Flint Institute of Music.