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Former Chisago Lakes School District Superintendent Dr. Tom Dickhudt was chosen to receive the Outstanding Service Award Outside of the Profession” from the Art Educators of Minnesota.

Marlene Biondo, Chisago Lakes High School Art teacher nominated Dickhudt because of his continued support of the arts in District #2144 and East Central Minnesota.

Dorothy Chrun, artist and semi-retired CLHS Art teacher, also wrote a letter of support, noting Dickhudt’s many years of supporting the arts throughout his career with the district.

Dr. Dickhudt was a charter member of the East Central Arts mentoring program, which has allowed for the advancement of skills of artists in the East Central region.

The “Image Art Show” was one of the offshoots of this program. The show continues its annual competition among residents from the surrounding areas.

Dickhudt also served as a long term art specialist in another school district.

Dickhudt himself is a talented artist, working mainly in watercolor. He also carries the distinction of being a noted Master Gardener.

Biondo said Dr. Dickhudt occasionally visited her art classroom to view individual artwork in progress and he encouraged art students to excel in their talent and enjoyed seeing their work.

The AEM will present the award at a Nov. 4 luncheon at the St. Paul Convention Center.

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