Justin Lepley (he/him) is a dedicated supporter of the arts and entrepreneurship in the Akron community. As the Director of Northside Marketplace and Owner of the Lepley Holdings Family of Companies, Justin is committed to supporting local businesses and fostering a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem. His efforts extend to his roles as President of MentorStark and as a board member of CANAPI (Community AIDS Network Akron Pride Initiative), where he contributes to community development and support.

In addition to his professional commitments, Justin serves as the Entrepreneur in Residence for the Young Entrepreneur Institute, sharing best practices in teaching entrepreneurship with K-12 educators to help nurture future innovators.

Justin and his partner Curtis are enthusiastic supporters of the local arts scene, regularly attending Akron area events. One of their favorites is The Groundhog Show, which debuted in Downtown Akron in June 2024 after taking place annually in the Portage Lakes since 2020. They actively support organizations like Summit Artspace and Akron Soul Train, recognizing that the arts and culture in Summit County play a crucial role in making the community vibrant and welcoming.

Share a memorable experience or moment you’ve had while attending an arts and cultural event in Summit County.
One of my favorite recent events in Summit County was the 2024 Groundhog Show. This beautiful event, curated by local artist Taylor Clapp in partnership with Curated Storefront, showcased over 100 artists and 170 pieces, primarily by LGBTQ+ and marginalized artists. In addition to visual arts, many other mediums were featured, creating a true sense of community in Akron’s Northside District. Curtis and I were thrilled to purchase a handful of pieces to bring home and enjoy!

In what ways do arts and culture contribute to your personal well-being and mental health?
Arts and culture offer a lens through which I can understand and appreciate the world around me. Often caught up in work and the next project, taking time to enjoy the arts reminds me to relax, enjoy life, and simply take in my surroundings. When I reflect on the past, I find that the experiences involving creative pursuits and meaningful engagement with the arts stand out the most.