Business officer at Stambaugh Auditorium chosen for arts advocacy initiative
Chief Business Officer of the Henry H. Stambaugh Auditorium Association, Dani Dier, has been selected as a member of the CreativeOhio Advocacy Leadership Institute (ALI), according to a news release.
The ALI is a program that looks to empower the state's arts and culture leaders, providing them with the skills and strategies needed to advocate for the sector.
Dier is one of 25 leaders chosen to participate.
The second cohort launches in May. The six-month program includes:
- Workshops
- Site visits to cultural hubs
- In-depth policy discussions with lawmakers and advocacy experts
Through the program, the participants are encouraged to "gain the knowledge and insight to influence public policy, secure funding and strengthen the statewide network of arts advocates."
According to the CreativeOhio website, upon completing the program, graduates will be "Certified Creative Sector Advocates."
The 2026 Cohort includes professionals from several arts of the creative sector, including performing arts organizations, museums and independent artists.
Dier, within the release, said," This opportunity will allow me to expand my advocacy skills, connect with leaders across the state and ensure that Youngstown plays a key role in advancing the arts in Ohio."
According to the release, the creative arts sector in Ohio supports more than 132,000 jobs and brings in $32.9 billion annually.
"CreativeOhio's Advocacy Leadership Institute is an important effort to raise the bar on civic literacy and engagement among Ohio's arts and culture leaders," said CreativeOhio Executive Director Sarah Sisser.
Sisser continued," We are excited to collaborate with this year's cohort: an accomplished group of leaders representing diverse disciplines and communities across the state who are stepping forward to strengthen the collective voice of Ohio's creative sector."
