The San Marcos Arts Commission has named the 2026 winners of its annual SMarts Awards. The honorees are Kirsten Boynt, Rebekah Porter, KZSM San Marcos, Karly Schlievert and Michelle Wilson. The awards recognize artists who support and enrich the city's arts and culture through volunteer work and participation in local businesses and arts organizations.
Commission Chair Jason Weems said community service can enrich people's lives. He encouraged residents to find a way to help that can make a lasting impact. Boynt, who performs with the band Los Gatos 512, said her family has lived in San Marcos since the 1950s. She said she values bringing Latin music and culture to the city. Porter is assistant director at MotherShip Studios and helps coordinate the San Marcos Studio Tour. She also runs the SMTX Bulletin Board Instagram page, which shares local events and resources.
Bennett Kobb, a KZSM board member, accepted the award for the station. Clay DeStefano accepted the award for Wilson, who could not attend the ceremony.