WaterFire Providence honored three outstanding Rhode Islanders at its 9th Annual FireBall Gala with WaterFire Impact Awards for their significant contributions to the community. Valerie Tutson received the Creative Impact Award for her work as a nationally recognized storyteller and cultural artist. Since 1991, she has connected cultures and generations through oral storytelling rooted in African and diasporic traditions. As Executive Director of Rhode Island Black Storytellers and owner of Stories n Stuff, Valerie also leads workshops and has performed widely.

J.L. Lynn Singleton was awarded the Civic Impact Award for his transformative leadership as President of the Providence Performing Arts Center (PPAC) since 1983. Under his guidance, PPAC grew from near bankruptcy to a premier nonprofit theater, hosting numerous Broadway tours and earning prestigious awards. Lynn also spearheaded the restoration of PPAC’s historic building and founded a successful subsidiary managing multiple theaters. His contributions have earned him numerous honors, including induction into the Rhode Island Heritage Hall of Fame in 2023.

Cortney Nicolato received the Joseph A. Chazan, M.D. Community Impact Award for her role as President and CEO of United Way of Rhode Island. She led a strategic plan investing $100 million in the state’s communities ahead of schedule, focusing on racial equity, education, housing, and economic mobility. Her leadership has expanded United Way’s impact through partnerships and data-driven approaches, redefining nonprofit community engagement.