Grace Carter is a nonprofit professional specializing in grants management, communications, and community engagement. She currently serves as Manager of Operations and Administration at the Fund for Our Economic Future, ensuring the smooth, efficient, and well-organized operation of the Fund. Previously, she was Associate Director of Community Impact at ArtsNow, where she led grant operations and public programs including the ArtsForward regranting program, which distributed $2 million to support arts and culture projects across Summit County.

Earlier in her career, Grace served as Community Engagement Coordinator at Summit Artspace, where she led marketing and communications efforts that significantly expanded audience reach. She directed a full website redesign and digital strategy, increasing the organization’s email list by 50% and achieving high engagement rates while overseeing media outreach and public-facing communications. Since 2022, she has also worked as a freelance writer, with work featured in regional publications including CAN Journal. In 2024, she was recognized for her contributions to the arts and culture sector with Summit Artspace’s Rising Arts Leader Arts Alive Award.

Grace has served on multiple grant review committees and artist selection panels across Ohio, is a member of the Grant Professionals Association, and has supported artists through coaching and public speaking engagements. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in art history with a minor in pre-law from Kent State University and a master’s degree in arts administration from The University of Akron.

In addition to her professional work, Grace is a certified yoga instructor and has experience in the floral industry. She is deeply committed to advancing equity, accessibility, and community-centered opportunities that empower individuals and organizations alike.

Althea Jones-multidisciplinary artist based in Northeast Ohio, whose work centers on self-reflection and community building. Utilizing a diverse range of media, including painting, photography, and performance art, Althea creates narratives that encourage introspection and foster collective engagement.

Althea holds a BA in Justice Studies from Kent State University and is currently working towards receiving a BFA at the University of Akron. Her academic background in justice studies deeply informs her artistic practice, imbuing her work with a strong commitment to social justice and community empowerment. Through her art, Althea aims to bridge personal exploration with broader societal dialogues, creating spaces for connection and meaningful discourse.