MADISON – In selecting its 2022 annual award recipients, the US Chess Federation has noticed and praised a Madison resident’s work to promote the game.

US Chess has notified Ranae Bartlett that she will receive an award for her work in co-chairing a working group called “Chess in Education.” This working group included program leaders in chess from across the country and was named “Committee of The Year.”

Reporting to US Chess, the working group studied and recommended the best way to grow chess in schools. “I was asked to serve because of the work with the Madison City Chess League in growing chess in our community,” Bartlett said. Bartlett serves as MCCL’s Executive Director.

“Our group recommended that US Chess form a standing committee that will focus on this issue, hire dedicated staff, create professional development and resources for classroom teachers, and insure that chess is an inclusive activity for all kids,” Bartlett said.

The federation focused on identifying individuals and organizations who are advancing its mission “to empower people, enrich lives and enhance communities through chess,” according to its website, new.uschess.org.

“I am traveling to the US Open in August to accept the award. I share it with my co-chair John Galvin,” Bartlett said. The awards ceremony will be held in conjunction with the 123rd US Open and annual meetings of US Chess in Rancho Mirage, Calif.

Galvin appeared in the movie, “Brooklyn Castle,” about a school team that wins national chess championships. An assistant principal, Galvin’s character sponsors the chess program at that school.

In addition, “Chess Life Magazine” will feature Bartlett and Galvin in an upcoming issue.

US Chess Federation is the official governing body for chess players and chess supporters in the United States. The nonprofit 501(c)3 organization strives to empower people, enrich lives and enhance communities through chess.

US Chess has grown to serve more than 93,000 members and 2,000 affiliated chess clubs and organizations. US Chess hosts national championships for both amateurs and professionals, ranging from elementary school students to senior citizens.

For more information, visit new.uschess.org or madisonchess.com.