MS SR17

Dorothy "Dottie" Armstrong of Newton, Mississippi receives the 2026 Governor's Arts Award for Excellence in Arts Education, presented at the 38th Governor's Arts Awards ceremony on February 12, 2026, at The Westin Jackson

Armstrong began her career as a high school English teacher before earning a master's in art education at Mississippi College and starting the art program at Newton High School

Led numerous public art projects throughout Newton including murals at schools, buildings, the hospital, businesses, the library, the theatre, and the depot, many of which were later destroyed by Hurricane Katrina

Recognized multiple times as Star Teacher and Woman of the Year by the Chamber of Commerce during her teaching career before retiring in 1999

Continues to operate The Secret Garden Art Studio, offering private adult and children's art classes to the community