On Saturday, March 3rd and Sunday, March 4th, 2012 the Hopi Education Endowment Fund (HEEF) hosted their annual art sale in Phoenix at the Inter-Tribal Council of Arizona (2214 N. Central Ave.  Through the sale of art, raffle tickets and financial support from sponsors, such as Premier Sponsor Peabody Energy, the HEEF raised over $24,000.

As the HEEF’s biggest fundraiser, much of the success from the event is attributed to contributions from  artists such as Kim Obrzut,  Iva Honyestewa, Clark Tenakhongva and Gloria Kahe. HEEF Executive Director LuAnn Leonard stated, "through the generous and continued donations of their artwork, all the contributing artists have not only shown their commitment to the HEEF, but to also ensuring educational opportunities will continue to be available for future generations of Hopi students." She added, "the HEEF would also like to thank  all the volunteers, especially the Hopi students whom receive funding from the HEEF. The event could not run as smoothly without their tireless efforts."

Chair Kerry Green along with committee members Gloria Lomahaftewa and Linda Lomahaftewa,  were also instrumental in helping staff to plan and implement the event. Kerry shared, “the 2012 Art sale was once again a fun and successful event. The HEEF helps to fund the education of numerous Hopi students and educational program, who show us the importance of our mission and the tremendous impact HEEF has on the lives of Hopi students. The quality of artwork donated by the Hopi and non-Hopi artists was impressive. We are grateful that they see the value of education and are enriching the world by encouraging these students.”

In support of HEEF’s efforts, Peabody Energy and several sponsors contributed to the event through financial or in kind contributions, including Major Sponsors Hopi Tribe Economic Development Corporation, Central Arizona Project, Arizona Public Service and Osborn Maledon as well as numerous sponsors at the Supporter level. HEEF Development/Resource Manager Vernon Kahe stated, “We’re very grateful to our sponsors, and with their support we were able to host a wonderful event.”