Intiman inaugurated the Ruben Van Kempen Arts Educator Award in 2006 to honor performing arts teachers in the state of Washington who inspire and empower youth through theater. The award is named for its first recipient, Ruben Van Kempen, Director of Drama at Roosevelt High School , who was instrumental in founding Intiman's flagship education program, Living History, with then-Artistic Director Elizabeth Huddle in 1986.

Armitage was nominated for the award by his former student Benjamin Stuart, who is currently pursuing a degree in Theatre Education at Seattle Pacific University . Noting that "Armo" (as he is universally known to his students) is an educator, a mentor and an artist, Stuart praised his dedication to his students at North Central High School (where Armitage has taught for his entire career) and his commitment to serving Spokane 's performing arts community.

"Tom Armitage is always looking to engage and educate the entire school, and break down social cliques and stereotypes," Stuart wrote. "In addition to offering unique production experiences, he finds new ways to celebrate invention, creativity and life." -- www.intiman.org