Randy Batista, who was mentored by the late Jerry Uelsmann, was recognized along well-known stars such as Eva Longoria, Steven Spielberg and Spike Lee.

President Joe Biden gave Virginia treasure and hip-hop legend Missy Elliott the National Medal of Arts this week. Why it matters: It's the highest honor that the U.S. government can give an artist. The big picture: The Portsmouth-born singer was among a list of 20 recipients,

: Joe Biden got several standing ovations as he presented the National Medals of Arts and Humanities, including a moment when he referenced the presidential race as he talked about the power of women.