TWA Champion of the Arts
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Champion of the Arts Award
The Donna Axum Whitworth Champion of the Arts Award recognizes a Texas Women for the Arts member who has made significant contributions to the arts, statewide, and whose work has embodied the mission and vision of the organization.
Our 2026 Champion of the Arts: Isha Rogers Santamaria
photo: The City Magazine El Paso
Isha Rogers Santamaria, Texas Women for the Arts Member since 2008, is a dedicated preservationist and philanthropic leader based in El Paso, with a strong commitment to advancing the arts and cultural heritage across Texas. Since 2008, she has been an active and engaged member, contributing her time and leadership to the organization’s continued growth, including serving as Chair for 2024–2025, leading the 2025 Annual Meeting in El Paso, and serving on the Executive Committee. Through her leadership, she has also helped bring in record-breaking numbers of new members from El Paso, strengthening the organization’s reach and impact. Isha has played a key role in historic preservation efforts in her community, including the restoration of the 1903 El Paso & Southwestern Railroad Depot, now St. Rogers Depot, which serves as a vibrant venue for cultural and community events. Her work reflects a broader dedication to preserving the stories and spaces that define Texas history. In addition to her preservation efforts, Isha is deeply engaged in philanthropic initiatives throughout her community. She serves as Chair of the El Paso Community Foundation and supports numerous organizations that promote education, the arts, and historical awareness, including the Tom Lea Institute and The Bryan Museum. Through her leadership, generosity, and longstanding service, Isha continues to make a lasting impact on the cultural landscape of El Paso and beyond.