Recognizing young voices ready to take flight.

Awarded each year since 2008 to promising vocal students, chosen by teachers associated with the National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS).

Know a promising young voice student? Ask about nominations

Nominations for the Chrysalis Award typically open each summer.

Chrysalis Award

The Chrysalis Award honors an individual living in the Triangle area of North Carolina who, through care, attentiveness, dedication, selfless love, and a sacrificial attitude, has rendered outstanding service in supporting children in the community.

Nominations are open through August 18, 2026.

Submit a nomination →

The Chrysalis Award is presented each year at the Anika James Foundation's annual fundraiser, this year on Saturday, September 12, 2026.

Past Chrysalis Award recipients

2025 — Ellen McAllister-Flack
2024 — Harvey McMurray
2023 — Olivia Bellido
2022 — Lee Moavenzadeh
2021 — Ann Bauer
2020 — Mark and Azi Perry
2020 — Cynthia Penn-Halal
2019 — Dilsey Davis

NATS Performing Arts Award

This award is provided to a promising female high school voice student, selected by teachers associated with the National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS) at its yearly recital.

Hannah Szemereta, 2021

Elena Holder, 2020

Recipients, 2008–present

2025 — Greta Spagnardi
2024 — Madison Maas
2023 — Olivia Corliss
2022 — Kaylyn Hall
2021 — Hannah Szemereta
2020 — Elena Holder
2019 — Sara Gordon
2018 — Claire Helms
2017 — Claire Griffin
2016 — Mary Callan Kelso
2015 — Noelle Cornelius
2014 — Clair Elizabeth Griffin
2013 — Susannah Rhodes Stewart
2012 — English Bernhardt
2011 — Brooke Wilson
2010 — English Bernhardt
2009 — Courtney Poland
2008 — Mara Howard-Williams & Meredith Davis