AKRON, Ohio (January 22, 2026) — ArtsNow is proud to announce the 2025 recipients of its Creative Investment Program (CIP), awarding $17,820 to 11 artists and creatives investing in their professional growth to strengthen both their work and its local impact.

The Creative Investment Program, proudly supported by the Ian Patrick Schwarber Foundation, allows recipients to pursue professional development opportunities, fostering growth and enhancing skills within the local creative community.

This year’s grantees reflect a dynamic cross-section of Summit County’s creative ecosystem, representing disciplines including visual art, music, dance, public art, and community-based programming. 

We’re honored to share the following recipients:

• Danielle Dieterich, Americans for the Arts Conference
• Shara Cocchiola, American Choral Directors Association, Children’s & Community Youth Choir Conductors’ Retreat
• Jennifer Furgerson, The International Ticketing Association’s (INTIX’s) 47th Annual Conference and Exhibition
• Maliyah Clark, Print Production for Designers certification
• Summit County Domestic Relations Court Family Court Services staff and Guardians ad Litem, Art as Therapy: Mindful creativity within Family Court
• Mary Beth Stauffer, Summit Artspace: Artist Launchpad
• Sarah Swirsky, Rhythm2Recovery
• Jessica Wallis, 4 Pointe Ballet Teacher Training
• Micah Kraus, Penland School of Craft Workshop
• Jennifer Maurer, Berklee Online Courses for Professional Artists
• Nakiasha Moore-Dunson, Association of Performing Arts Professionals – Emerging Leadership Institute

“These grants are investments in people,” said Nicole Mullet, Executive Director of ArtsNow. “By supporting artists’ and creatives’ professional growth, we are strengthening the skills, leadership, and capacity that fuel Summit County’s creative economy and cultural life over the long term.”

CIP grants provide direct investment in artists’ and creatives’ professional development, supporting training, skill-building, and career-advancing opportunities that strengthen individual practice and long-term impact. 

“Ian believed deeply in people, creativity, and the power of community to lift one another,” said Tony Beiting, President of Ian Patrick Schwarber Foundation. “Supporting the Creative Investment Program honors that spirit by investing in professionals as they grow their skills and build lasting careers in Summit County.”

Through partnerships like this, ArtsNow continues its mission to champion arts, culture, and recreation as key drivers of economic vitality and quality of life.

To learn more about the Creative Investment Program and ArtsNow’s work to champion arts, culture, and recreation in Summit County, visit artsnow.org.