Richland Academy of the Arts

 

Empower the Arts Campaign

Executive Director, Dr. Michael Benson, Leads Richland Academy of the Arts Into the Future

On August 22, 2024, the Richland Academy of the Arts (RAA) proudly launched our $3.7 million Empower the Arts (ETA) Capital Campaign to transform and modernize our historic facility in the heart of downtown Mansfield’s Carousel District. Thanks to the overwhelming generosity of our community, along with State of Ohio Capital Budget grants, businesses, and other like-minded people, we have already received pledges totaling $2,379,284.29 as of October 21! We manage every dollar entrusted to this campaign with absolute transparency and care, ensuring it directly enriches lives across our nine-county community: Ashland, Crawford, Franklin, Knox, Huron, Licking, Morrow, Richland, and Wayne.

Together with our dedicated Board of Trustees and design architect Mr. Dan Seckle, we’ve already made exciting progress: building a state-of-the-art tap/jazz studio, modernizing our elevator to maintain full ADA compliance for vital State of Ohio grants and seamless family access, and opening a warm, welcoming new vestibule. Looking ahead to 2026, the next phase will spark even more creativity by completing our second-floor renovations. This includes a bright new “littles” dance space, an expanded visual arts wing, a versatile multi-purpose room for music and visual arts, and a dedicated venue for martial arts (Kenpo). Essential facility improvements—such as upgraded performance spaces, efficient HVAC, modern plumbing, and updated electrical systems—will also help keep our facility safe, vibrant, and sustainable for generations to come.

Ever since Marianne Cooper founded RAA in 1991, our guiding light has remained clear: “…to foster, through artistic expression, the creative potential that exists in everyone to enrich the lives of our neighbors, our community, and the world at large.”

Building imagery features changes to 4th St. and Walnut St. views.

We would love to share this vision with you in person! Please reach out to me anytime with questions or to schedule a personal tour of our facility. Together, as we dream about the future, we can make this powerful vision a reality for all.

Dr. Michael L. Benson, Executive Director

Phone: 419-522-8224

mbenson@richlandacademy.com

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Empower the Arts Today!

Visit our website to learn more!