sam scripps played an important role in recognizing the importance of dance choreography in america. in addition to lending his financial support to various dance programs from california to new york, in 1981 he established and endowed the samuel h. scripps american dance festival award for lifetime achievement in choreography. the award, given annually, is administered by american dance festival. the award, which carries a gift of $50,000, is one of the most prestigious awards of its kind, and it recipients have been some of the most important dance choreographers in america in the second half of the 20th century.