IX Power Foundation

Maya Osterman-Van Grack was named the 2024 "Wonderful Woman in the Arts" by the Colorado Chapter of the Women's Caucus for Art. Judging Chair Karen Lausa presented the award which was one of 11 presented at the event in various categories for leadership and community service. Maya was nominated by Theresa Mazza.
Maya created Restorative Theatre, bringing the power of theatre and arts into spaces where people are incarcerated at places such as Mount View Youth Services Center and Lookout Mountain Youth Services Center. Students who would normally not have the opportunity to experience theatre, story telling, or expressing themselves through the arts are now given that opportunity. Maya has impacted hundreds of youth at a local and state level. Across the country, Maya has provided professional development with adults serving youth, training them to be trauma informed and providing healing-centered and culturally responsive engagement. She began her work as an applied theatre practitioner over a decade ago and has created several theatre organizations meant to assist people with different traumas in their backgrounds.
Maya is deeply committed to serving youth through the power of theater and trusted connections. She has created long-lasting relationships and provided ongoing support with youth who have no family, no support, and are in prison.

Other Finalists for the 2024 award included:

Analise Black

Brook Hipp

Carrie MaKenna

Laura Phelps Rogers

Wilma Rose

Becky Silver

Elaine Tassy