Friends of St. Avips
The Legacy of St. Avips
St. Avips, or “Spiva” in reverse, embodies the history, dedication, and passion of Joplin’s art community. Conceived by Mary Stanley, a close friend of George Spiva, this initiative was designed to financially support and sustain the art center. Its inception can be traced back to May 1962, when the first-ever St. Avips Ball was organized at the Connor Hotel. Over the decades, this annual event has become a much-anticipated occasion.
The core of St. Avips is driven by 40 dedicated volunteers who come together each year with a singular goal: to orchestrate a gala to garner funds for Spiva. These members pledge their time and embrace the opportunity to host the ball, with a planned schedule stretching all the way to 2031. The roles they assume vary, from curating invitations and decorations to overseeing food and more, culminating in an event that epitomizes community spirit.
A Shift in Strategy, a Growth in Donations
For many years, while St. Avips’ contributions to Spiva were cherished, they weren’t substantial. However, a shift occurred in 1998 when the group started actively seeking underwriting for the ball. This strategic move invited companies and individuals to financially back various facets of the event, from the wine on tables to the invitations sent out.
By 2008, underwriting had surged to nearly $40,000. The boost in funds meant St. Avips could increase their donations to Spiva. As a testament to this growth, in 2023, the Friends of St. Avips contributed an impressive $120,000 to Spiva, taking their total donations since the group’s inception to over $1.2 million
Art, Auctions & Associations
Integral to the St. Avips ball is the Sana S. Shagets art auction, providing artists a platform to showcase their creations and simultaneously raise funds for Spiva.
The bond between St. Avips and Spiva goes beyond financial contributions. While members of St. Avips often find representation on the Spiva board, both entities operate autonomously, often uniting in collaboration and support. It’s this mutual respect and shared vision that forms the cornerstone of this partnership, all in the pursuit of ensuring art plays a valuable role in our community.
Learn more about the Friends of St. Avips
Thank You to the 2026 Underwriters
Artist Circle
Sharon and Lance Beshore
Debra and David Humphreys
Forvis Mazars Private Client
Patron Level
Crossland Construction Company, Inc.
Freeman Health System
Leggett & Platt, Inc.
The Glauber Family
Stanley Wealth Management, Logan Stanley & Ryan Stanley
Cherub Level
Juanita and Mike Cragin
Scott Cragin
Gay Cragin Currence
MacCo Builders
Satterlee Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning
Aunt Anne Sharp
Platinum Level
Arvest Private Banking
Natalie Avondet and Jason Nowland
Karolee and Kent Blanchard
Doris Carlin and Gary Bandy
Christy Cragin
Leigh and Mark Frogge
Gamble & Schlemeier, Governmental Consultants
GB Engineering – Civil Engineering and Design
Steve and Diana Graddy
Cynthia Graham
Amy and Brian Ipsen
Heather and Kile Lesmeister
Liberty Utilities
Dr. Rob and Mrs. Karen Lieurance
Dr. and Mrs. Ryan Longnecker
Dr. and Mrs. Talon Maningas
Emily and Brad McIntyre
McLarty Daniel Buick GMC
Mercy
Jill and Reed Miller
Amanda and Philip Mitchell
Renee and John Motazedi
Rebecca and Joe Newman
Kay and Randy Spiva
Mindy and Steve St. Clair
The Wild Flower – Justin Thomas
Heidi and Pete Williams
Gold Level
Susan Burleigh
Corner Greer Architects
Karie and Steve Currence
Davis CPA Group
Guaranty Bank
The Insurancenter
Mid-Missouri Bank
People’s Bank of Seneca
Sally Reid
Cari and Rob Renger
Sebastian Equipment Company
Southwest Missouri Bank
Silver Level
Dr. and Mrs. Brant Ansley
Lakeland Office Systems
Sara Newman
William Brady Shagets
Jan and Larry Shelley
Dr. and Mrs. Mitchell Stinnett
Willis Team Southtown Real Estate
Tea Sponsor
The Curchin and Secker Families
In-Kind Donors
Action Graphics Printing
American Ramp Company
Jill Brennan and Cary Oserowsky
Club 609
Comeau Jewelry Company
Connect2Culture
Finn’s
Guru Marketing
La Boussole Medical Spa and Wellness Center
Maningas Wellness and Injectables
Runaround Running and Lifestyle
Starry Eyed Girl
The 122 Lounge
12EightyOne Photography, Drew Kimble
USA Print & Digital Services, Linda and Keith Kuehle
Wilder’s Steakhouse