Visiting backstage at the 2003 Governor's Awards in the Arts are, from left: Rich Boyd, executive director of the Tennessee Arts Commission; Dolly Parton; Gov. Phil Bredesen and First Lady Andrea Conte; and Ann Smith, chair of the Tennessee Arts Commission. Dolly Parton was presented the Lifetime Achievement Award for her outsanding contributions to the cultural life of Tennessee. Approximately 1700 attented the Salute to Excellence held recently at Nashville's historic Ryman Auditorium. The event, presented by the Tennessee Arts Commission, featured award presentations and musical performances.


Dolly accepts her award.

Images courtesy the Tennessee Arts Commission. Used with permission.