Maren Morris Receives Creative Dreamers Award for Supporting Arts Education Through Meet & Greet Donations

Maren Morris took home the Creative Dreamers Award at the 2026 Music Will Benefit, held at the New York Marriott Marquis on Thursday, May 7, recognizing her dedication to supporting music and arts education.

The 36-year-old Grammy-winning artist channels all revenue from her meet and greet events directly toward funding fine arts programs at schools with limited resources. Her contributions have extended to her own high school alma mater as well as the school where her friend Karina taught, which Morris visited to speak with students.

"I want the kids to have new instruments, new choir dresses and better drama clothes that don't smell like BO," Morris explained to People magazine about her philanthropic efforts.

For the artist, the recognition carries particular significance. "Arts mean the most to me, and I don't think I would have the life I have if I didn't have teachers that gave a s–t," she said.

Morris credits a transformative educator from her own schooling with shaping her trajectory. "Her name's Ms. Wheat, and she changed my life because she was really tough on me. She knew how capable I was, and that just made me want to impress her. And I feel like as a writer, as a songwriter, that absolutely had a big impact on me," the "Girl" singer reflected.

She emphasized the broader importance of arts instruction in developing young people. "Teachers do all this heavy lifting so kids can build imagination and self-esteem," Morris added.