GREEN COVE SPRINGS - The third annual Augusta’s Legacy Family Celebration took place on Aug. 1 at Sullivan Hall on Fleming Island.

Organized by the Friends of Augusta Savage Arts & Community Center (FASACC), the event was made possible through the generous support of several community sponsors, including the City of Green Cove Springs, Brian & Jennifer Knight, Reynolds Park-Clay County Port, Elks Lodge #1892, Larianne Stutts, the Village Improvement Association, and Dale Wilson, PA, benefiting local children, their families and guests.

FASACC Director Carolyn Hines-Clarkson facilitated the event, which was attended by prominent community leaders, including Green Cove Springs’ Mayor Darren Stutts, Interim City Manager Mike Null, Council Member Tom Centracchio, and FASACC Director and former Mayor Constance Butler.

“If Augusta Savage stood among us today, she would smile, knowing that her name opens doors for young people from the community she loved,” FASACC organizers said. Emphasizing Augusta Savage’s core philosophy that her greatest sculptures were her students, the celebration featured active participation from local youth. Children, including Jah Xavier Cheesborough, Talia Butler and Elle Grace Butler, welcomed attendees, led prayers and blessed the food. The program also included inspiring musical selections by the Hickory Grove Youth Group, instrumental performances by Abbie Sanchez and Andrew Spann and a solemn candle-lighting ceremony honoring Savage’s enduring legacy.

A central highlight of the event was the official presentation of the first-ever FASACC scholarship. The FASACC president and directors gathered to present the award to Alivia Gainey, a graduate of Fleming Island High, who exemplifies the spirit and purpose of the award. Having completed advanced and honors coursework since middle school, Gainey fulfilled her high school graduation requirements by her junior year while simultaneously taking a full year of college courses at St. Johns River State College. She maintained a GPA above 3.75, earned a spot on the Dean’s List, twice received the Principal’s Award, and graduated in 2026 with her Associate of Arts degree. Gainey will attend Florida International University to study biological science in preparation for a career in medicine.

“Alivia is an exceptional and highly motivated student who consistently demonstrates maturity, responsibility, and intellectual curiosity well beyond her years,” said Dr. Susan Dunn, instructor at St. Johns River State College.

“Despite facing significant barriers, Augusta Savage remained dedicated to her craft and created opportunities for others who were often overlooked,” Gainey said. “Her legacy inspires me because it shows that creativity combined with resilience and service can create lasting impact. Like Savage, I strive to use my education and future career in healthcare to support and uplift others in meaningful ways.”

The celebration concluded with a surprise performance by the Jacksonville Jumbies, who delivered an energetic crowd-pleasing show featuring traditional stilt-walking, which is popular in the Caribbean and around the world. This special highlight was made possible through the support of the Mackeys.

The Augusta’s Legacy Family Celebration is a joyful, dignified gathering created to spotlight the students, parents, and volunteers of the Augusta Savage Mentoring Center and the surrounding community. It is an evening designed to encourage, appreciate and recognize greatness – the greatness that lives in every child who dares to create, every parent who stands with them, and every volunteer who gives their time, heart and hope.

This celebration lifts up the people who keep Augusta Savage’s spirit alive today. It is more than an event. It is a declaration that their contributions matter, their efforts are seen, and their legacy is shaping the future of Clay County and beyond.

The Friends of Augusta Savage Arts & Community Center (FASACC) is dedicated to preserving the history, artistic heritage and spirit of community uplift established by sculptor and educator Augusta Savage. Through educational initiatives, community outreach and scholarships, the organization invests in the next generation of leaders and creators. Founded in 2014, FASACC is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization located at 1107 Martin Luther King Blvd.