The Polk Arts & Cultural Alliance is proud to announce the 2026 Polk Arts Hall of Fame Inductees, honoring seven individuals and families whose extraordinary contributions have shaped the artistic, cultural, educational, and historic fabric of Polk County.
The 2026 inductees represent a remarkable range of disciplines, including music, visual arts, preservation, philanthropy, education, and cultural leadership. Through their talents, service, and advocacy, each has left an enduring legacy that continues to enrich the lives of Polk County residents and inspire future generations.
“Our Hall of Fame exists to celebrate the individuals whose dedication and vision have helped define Polk County’s cultural identity,” said Michell Githens, Chair of the Board of Directors for Polk Arts & Cultural Alliance. “The 2026 inductees have strengthened our community through creativity, mentorship, preservation, education, and philanthropy. Their impact extends far beyond their individual accomplishments and can be seen throughout Polk County today.”
2026 Hall of Fame Inductees
Jean and David Bunch
Historic Preservation and Cultural Heritage Champions
Jean and David Bunch have dedicated their lives to preserving and celebrating the history that defines Polk County’s communities. Their work has ensured that important stories, landmarks, and traditions remain part of the county’s cultural landscape.
Jean Bunch founded Historic Lakeland, an organization devoted to protecting and promoting the city’s historic resources. Together, the couple championed efforts such as preserving and relocating a historic 1914 farmhouse in South Lakeland and ensuring that Bonnet Springs Park honored its history as a former rail yard.
David Bunch is widely recognized as a leading voice on local history and is frequently invited to speak on the importance of preserving Polk County’s historic core. Their commitment has earned numerous honors, including the Lakeland CityMaker Award, the George Jenkins Award, and the Polk Pioneer Award. Through their leadership, the Bunches have helped preserve the cultural heritage that connects past, present, and future generations.
Patrick Fleitz
Music Educator, Pianist, and Arts Advocate
For decades, Patrick Fleitz has inspired students and audiences alike through his work as an accomplished pianist, dedicated educator, and champion of the performing arts. As a faculty member at Harrison School for the Arts, Fleitz has mentored countless young musicians, many of whom have gone on to successful professional careers in piano and music performance.
Beyond the classroom, Fleitz has elevated the quality and accessibility of local theater productions while serving as a mentor to emerging arts leaders and educators throughout the region. His commitment to arts education, cultural engagement, and artistic excellence has strengthened Polk County’s creative community and expanded access to the arts as a powerful tool for personal growth and human connection.
Tom Freeman
Artist, Educator, and Community Builder
The late Tom Freeman devoted his life to capturing and celebrating the beauty, history, and spirit of Florida. After relocating to Lake Wales in 1958, Freeman became a beloved community figure, founding Freeman’s Art and Frame Shop and establishing himself as both a successful entrepreneur and respected artist.
His artistic legacy remains visible throughout Polk County in installations at Warner University and murals at AdventHealth Lake Wales. As an educator and advocate for the arts, Freeman inspired countless students and emerging artists. Together with Marcia Pennington, he co-authored Tom Freeman’s Florida, a creative tribute to all 67 counties of the state through art, stories, and poetry. His work helped preserve the cultural identity of Polk County while strengthening community pride for generations.
Lois Cowles Harrison
Philanthropist, Civic Leader, and Arts Visionary
Lois Cowles Harrison’s influence on the arts in Polk County and throughout Florida is immeasurable. A passionate advocate for arts education and cultural enrichment, Harrison believed deeply in the transformative power of creativity and worked tirelessly to ensure access to the arts for all.
Her philanthropic support benefited organizations including the Imperial Symphony Orchestra and numerous local and statewide arts institutions. She played a key role in fundraising efforts that led to the construction of the current home of the former Polk Museum of Art and, alongside her husband Homer Hooks, championed major cultural initiatives throughout Florida, including the Lois Cowles Harrison Center for the Visual and Performing Arts.
A member of the Florida Fine Arts Council and recipient of the Polk Museum of Art’s Lifetime Achievement Award, Harrison leaves a legacy that continues to influence students, artists, and arts organizations across the state.
“She understood that art shapes the way we see the world and she fought tirelessly to bring that vision into Florida’s classrooms,” said her daughter, Lois E. Harrison. “For her, art was essential, not optional, a force that could awaken minds and transform communities.”
Patricia Lamb
Art Educator, Advocate and Statewide Arts Leader
For more than 48 years, Patricia “Pat” Lamb has called Lakeland and Polk County home while dedicating her life’s work to strengthening arts education and supporting the educators and students who make it possible. A respected leader, mentor, and advocate, Lamb has played a pivotal role in advancing visual arts education both locally and throughout Florida. As Visual Arts Supervisor for Polk County Public Schools, Lamb helped shape and elevate arts programming for thousands of students while mentoring generations of art educators. Her leadership extended far beyond the classroom through service as President of the Florida Art Education Association and in numerous board leadership positions, where her collaborative approach and commitment to excellence helped influence the direction of arts education across the state.
At the national level, Lamb worked with the College Board and presented professional development workshops and training sessions for educators from diverse backgrounds. Whether mentoring teachers, leading conferences, or advocating for arts instruction, she consistently emphasized quality, integrity, and the essential role of arts education in fostering creativity, critical thinking, and student success.
Through decades of service, Lamb has strengthened the arts community by investing in the people who sustain it. Her lasting influence can be seen in the countless educators she has mentored, the students whose lives have been enriched through quality arts instruction, and the continued growth of arts education throughout Polk County and beyond.
Johnny Bernard Neal, Jr.
Music Educator and Community Mentor
Mr. Johnny Bernard Neal, Jr. dedicated more than 35 years to music education in Polk County Public Schools and helped shape generations of musicians, educators, and community leaders.
A graduate of Bethune-Cookman College, Neal served as band director at Jewett High School from 1953 to 1968 and continued his leadership following school integration, later serving at what is now Jewett Academy. Under his direction, the Jewett High School band earned statewide recognition for excellence, performance quality, and showmanship.
Neal’s influence extended well beyond the band room. Among the many students he mentored were future musicians and music educators who would carry forward his commitment to excellence. In recognition of his lasting impact, he was honored as one of the City of Winter Haven’s 2026 Black Local Heroes. His legacy continues to resonate across Polk County through the lives he changed and the musical traditions he helped build.
Celebrating a Lasting Legacy
The Polk Arts Hall of Fame recognizes individuals whose achievements have significantly advanced arts and culture in Polk County and whose influence continues to shape the community for future generations.
The 2026 induction ceremony will celebrate the lasting contributions of these honorees and the profound impact they have had on the cultural life of the county. Join Polk Arts and Culture Alliance on Tuesday, October 6, 2026 at Lake Eva Event Center for the induction of these individuals into the Polk Arts and Culture Hall of Fame, along with a celebration of arts and culture through performance and awards. Purchase tickets here.
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