The Applause Award is given to an individual or family in recognition of outstanding contributions to the enrichment of our community life through appreciation and support of the arts.

Anne DeRose was appointed to the Chandler Cultural Foundation Management Board in 2006. She started the Arts Awards program which was presented to the first family and business in 2006. Anne then worked to nominated the Center for the Governors Arts Award in the Community Category, and the Center received the coveted award in 2006.

Anne connected the Foundation with Zeyna Kirdar who has served as our Volunteer Gift Shop Manager for over 10 years and raised thousands of dollars. She served as Secretary on the Executive Committee and as Chair of the Adopt A Seat campaign. Anne always kept her eye on talent and invited several board members to apply to serve on the board. Anne assisted with planned giving and is a fierce advocate for growing the Center’s endowment and serving the Sun Lakes community.

Anne serves the community and St. Steven’s Church and was awarded Woman of the Year from the Phoenix Diocesan Council of Catholic Women.

Anne is from Lansing, Michigan, and is the mother of seven children. She and her husband have lived in Sun Lakes for 22 years.

Anne DeRose was critical to the sustained success of the Chandler Center for the Arts. Her outstanding contributions to the arts community in Chandler have enriched countless lives.