Category: Blog

Before ArtsNow was ArtsNow, it was an idea—an initiative bubbling with potential and promise. I still remember it vividly: a series of meetings called together under what I believe was the Arts & Culture Initiative (I’ll double-check the name, but[...]

Americans for the Arts Convention 2025 took place in Cincinnati, Ohio, on June 11 – 14. ArtsNow was thrilled to be in attendance alongside Summit County leaders and artists. Below, attendees from Summit County shared how the experience impacted them. Michelle Alle[...]

Josh Gordon brings energy, persistence, and a deep commitment to community to his role as Executive Director of the Barberton Community Foundation. A seasoned leader in marketing and communications, Josh has made an impact across sectors—from nonprofits and education [...]

Kara Jenelle “KJ” Wade (Los Angeles, CA) is a choreographer, educator, and cultural leader who bridges art and administration in meaningful ways. As the founder of Delta Chi Xi Honorary Dance Fraternity, Inc., she created a national platform for collegiate dancers c[...]

A passionate servant leader who understands the power of the people, The Honorable Veronica Sims has dedicated her career to the transformative power of empowering others with the tools needed to effect the changes that they desire to see in the communities in which the[...]

Summit County looks out for one another, and that starts with staying informed. In a world full of information (and let’s be honest, plenty of memes), it’s not always easy to know what’s real or what matters most. That’s why we’re sharing organizatio[...]

The following speech was given by Rick Rogers, Executive Director of Curated Storefront and recipient of the H. Peter Burg Economic Development Leadership Award issued by the Greater Akron Chamber, on March 12th, 2025. Thank you to the leadership of the Greater Akron Ch[...]

Elizabeth Bartz is the President and CEO of State and Federal Communications, Inc., a company she founded in 1993. As a woman-owned, small business, Elizabeth directs the operations of her 43-person firm, from managing a team of lawyers and research experts to overseein[...]

Anthony Boarman is the Strategic Communications Manager at GAR Foundation, where he builds awareness and broad support for the Foundation’s efforts to advance systemic solutions that make Greater Akron smarter, stronger, and more vibrant. Prior to joining GAR, Anthony[...]

The following speech was originally presented by Diane Johnson at An Evening with Artists: An ArtsForward Fundraiser on December 12th, 2024. I’m a visual artist, writer, and creative. I’m a proud grandma of eight wonderful grandchildren who are also inspiring artist[...]