Summit Artspace Announces Interim Executive Director
Akron, OHIO (May 23, 2025) — The Summit Artspace Board of Directors has named Natalie Grieshammer Patrick as interim executive director. The appointment follows the departure of Executive Director Heather Meeker in June to lead Curated Storefront, another Downtown Akron arts organization.
Grieshammer Patrick has served Summit Artspace as Director of Artist Resources since 2021. Her term as interim executive director begins June 7.
Grieshammer Patrick’s extensive experience with the organization will help Summit Artspace connect local artists to the resources they need to thrive during the leadership transition.
“We are proud to appoint Natalie Grieshammer Patrick as interim executive director,” said Kristen Dowey, President of the Board of Directors. “Natalie has been instrumental in shaping the success and growth of Summit Artspace over the past four years. Through her leadership, Summit Artspace has significantly expanded its artist support programming, hosted more than two dozen exhibitions annually, and increased visitors and art sales for local artists. With strong relationships in Akron’s cultural ecosystem, a data-driven and inclusive approach to artist engagement, and a clear vision for the future, Natalie is exceptionally well-positioned to lead Summit Artspace through this important transition and continue advancing our mission to support and elevate local artists.”
An arts administrator and practicing fiber artist, Grieshammer Patrick previously served as Gallery Director for Praxis Fiber Workshop, Member Program Manager for Cleveland Museum of Art, and managed numerous programs, community engagement, and fundraising initiatives at Akron Soul Train, a local artist residency nonprofit. She is a Strategic Planning Advisor and Partner at Akron Recording Company, an audio and video recording studio. She was recognized as one of the Greater Akron Chamber’s “30 for the Future” in 2021 and serves on the Akron Art Museum’s Community Advisory Council. Grieshammer Patrick earned a B.F.A. in Fiber and Material Studies from the Cleveland Institute of Art and an M.A. in Arts Administration from The University of Akron.
“The Board extends sincere appreciation to outgoing Executive Director Heather Meeker,” Dowey added. “Her contributions and dedication to the organization have been transformative, and we are excited for her new role at Curated Storefront.”
“Serving Summit Artspace and its artists, partners, and donors for the past four years has been a true gift,” notes Meeker. “We’ve accomplished a great deal together, and many opportunities are on the horizon. I am confident that Natalie, the talented professional team, and the Board will continue to deepen Summit Artspace’s impact as an essential partner in Akron’s thriving arts community.”
“I’m honored to step into this position at a pivotal moment for Summit Artspace and the arts sector,” said Grieshammer Patrick. “With Heather’s direction and our shared vision, Summit Artspace has earned a reputation for artist-centered organizational values and programs in a challenging post-pandemic environment. I look forward to building on our momentum and ensuring Summit Artspace is a vibrant, trusted, and responsive partner to local artists.”
