A medical doctor in Effingham, Dr. Ruben Boyajian has enlivened the celebration of the humanities in his community through his unique contributions to the city's sculpture, theater, and paintings. Every year as Christmas approaches, the citizens of Effingham eagerly await Dr. Ruben Boyajian's intricately detailed gingerbread houses that are modeled after their city's historical buildings. These include City Hall, the County Building, and many other structures. Dr. Boyajian has been recognized by the President of the United Statesfor his gingerbread model of the White House. In addition, Dr. Boyajian has worked with local historical groups like the Effingham Historical Society in rounding up historical objects and finding permanent homes for their collections. He has been a key part of the arts in Effingham for a very long time, serving on the Fine Arts Council of Effingham (FACE) and acting in many of the Council's yearly productions.
Select Illinois Humanities Council programs are now available for listening or download at Chicago Public Media (WBEZ) as a part of Chicago Amplified, a web-based audio library of diverse public events recorded throughout the Chicago region.
