Published 7:24 pm Thursday, July 24, 2025
By Amy Lewis
Longtime Greenville arts supporter Roberta “Bobbie” Gamble is the namesake for a scholarship sponsored by the Greenville Area Arts Council. Photo submitted.
The Greenville Area Arts Council opens applications for the 2025 Roberta P. Gamble Arts Scholarship. Photo by greenvilleal.gov.
The Greenville Area Arts Council (GAAC) is now accepting applications for the 2025 Roberta P. Gamble Arts Scholarship, offering Butler County residents a chance to pursue their artistic passions with financial support.
Applications opened July 10 and will be accepted through August 29. The scholarship is available to individuals or groups who seek to enhance their skills or projects in the arts — including music, writing, visual arts and education — regardless of age.
“The GAAC is so grateful to the community for supporting the scholarship program with donated auction items as well as monetary memorials and gifts,” said GAAC Director Nancy Idland. “This year 2 scholarships will be awarded. Individuals or groups who seek to enhance themselves through the arts should apply.”
Eligible applicants may include students saving for instruments or lessons, church music programs needing sheet music, or local artists aiming to further their craft. Applications can be submitted online at seeyouattheritz.com.
The scholarship was named in honor of longtime arts supporter Roberta P. Gamble and has continued to make an impact in the lives of local young artists. Pam Sexton, a Greenville resident, shared her personal connection to the program.
“Reagan McLain, my grandson, was a first year recipient of the GAAC Roberta Gamble Scholarship,” Sexton said. “He is currently entering his third year at Troy University majoring in Music Education.”
Sexton credited Reagan’s early exposure to the arts through the GAAC’s Ritz Kids program and Idland’s continued encouragement throughout his high school years.
“This scholarship helps so much to enrich young individuals to achieve their dreams and goals in music and the arts,” she said. “The Roberta Gamble Scholarship is a high honor to bestow on these young men and women.”
The GAAC continues to prioritize local talent and artistic development through its community programs and scholarships, reinforcing its mission to promote and sustain the arts in the Camellia City.
