2022 Scholarship Winner Interviews

Dare to Dream Scholarship Winners  Interview Q/A 2022

Interview by Alumni President – Joshua Trotter ‘14

2022 Scholarship Winners: 

Ciara Lukemire ‘22 – Liberty University – Biblical Studies

Abigail Irons ‘22 – University of Cincinnati (DAAP) – Architecture

Alia Dalton ‘22- Wright State University – Dance/Deaf Studies

Dionne Parker ‘22- Grambling State University – Nursing

Sarah Opoku ‘22 – Northwestern University – Chemistry

Elena Theirback ‘22 – Pratt Institute – Film

Marcia Gause ‘22- University of Cincinnati – Psychology

Kylia Shearer ‘22- East Carolina University – Dance/Business

This scholarship was only made possible by the generosity of our Dues-paying Alumni Membership and other supportive donations we were able to award our 2022 winners with a total of $5,000!
OUR BIGGEST SCHOLARSHIP AWARD TO DATE! 

You can help support the goals of a member of the Class of 2023!

When you become a dues-paying member of the SCPA Alumni Association not only are you supporting our association, you are personally donating to the future of an SCPA senior through a needed scholarship! 

Click Here To Become A Member of the Association

________________________________________________________________________________________________

Alumni President Joshua Trotter ’14 got to sit down with the 2022 Dare to Dream Scholarship Recipients to talk about their experiences at SCPA and what they will take with them on their paths into college and beyond! All Senior Year pictures in this article have been provided by the winners/NAAcSCPA.

Dionne Parker backstage at Class of 2022 Graduation

Q: Tell us a little bit about yourself. Who you are, When did you first start attending SCPA, and what was your major? 

Dionne: Well, my name is Dionne Parker. I am a 2022 graduate of SCPA. I majored in Vocal Music and Technical Theater. I also started attending SCPA in Kindergarten, when it was still SHEIL Primary School for the Arts in Clifton. Since I’ve spent 13 years at SCPA, I am considered a “Legend.”

Ciara: My name is Ciara Lukemire. I started attending SCPA in the 9th grade and Majored in Creative Writing. I came from an out-of-district school, thinking I wouldn’t make it in, but I did! 

Elena: I’m Elena. I first started attending SCPA in the 8th grade, and my major has always been Visual Arts.

Alia: I am Alia Dalton. I am a “survivor” I’ve been at SCPA since 4th grade, and I was a Dance Major.                         

Sarah: My name is Sarah. I have majored in Drama for the past three years. I started SCPA as a sophomore. 

Marcia: I am Marcia Gause. I started attending SCPA in Kindergarten, so I am a Legend! I also majored in Drama.

Kylia: I’m Kylia, and I’m a dancer. I came to SCPA in the 6th grade.

Abigail: I’m Abigail Irons, and I started going to SCPA in the 7th grade. I majored in Visual Arts.

 

Sarah and fellow seniors rocking their college T-Shirts on the newly painted SCPA Playground!

Q: What originally got you interested in the arts? 

Dionne: When I was younger, I remember singing all the time in my little cat heels, trying to be like Beyonce! Then I auditioned for the 4th grade and got into all of the majors I wanted, but I stuck with Vocal and Tech. 

Ciara: In the 5th grade, I entered a writing competition and wrote a creative story about Minions. That was the first time a teacher pulled me aside and told me I had a gift.

Elena: As a kid, I was always doodling. It became a major outlet for me. Eventually, it became something that I did all the time. Then I heard about auditions for SCPA, and that became my focus. 

Alia: I started my dance journey at a competitive dance studio. My friend brought me in and exposed me to many different dance styles. I didn’t know that there were so many types of dance, and being there confirmed that I wanted to dance.  

Senior Selfies!

Sarah: Growing up, I’ve always been in advanced classes and was enrolled in science camps over the summer. During that time, I also developed an intense love for theatre. In my first play, I was cast as a card in Alice in Wonderland but didn’t get to be in it because we moved. My freshman year was my first time in a musical. That was the first time I’d been a part of such a big production, so it only pushed me to love the arts more!

Marcia: Well, I’ve always wanted to be Hannah Montana! I grew up watching the Disney channel, so I always sang or danced around the house. It’s not like I told myself I would be an actress or a singer; my mom saw something in me and decided to send me to a performing arts school. So really, she’s the one who threw me into the art world of SCPA. 

Abigail: I think art has always been a part of my life. There was never really a moment where there was a spark and something clicked. I believe that ever since I was able to have mobility in my hand, I’ve done art. 

Kylia: My parents put me in everything, but dance is the main thing that stuck. I danced at a studio since I was two years old, and I came to SCPA so I could dance during the day as well. 

 

Ciara and her Creative Writing Teacher and Fellow Alumna Dr.Sarr

Q: Is there a teacher at SCPA (Academic or in the arts) that pushed you or challenged you in any way? 

Dionne: Ms.Wyant pushed me to keep auditioning for baby grands, and I’m a better singer and person because of it. She did push me. Baby Grands was big for me because it was one of the school’s top vocal groups. As a senior, I became the leader, and we wanted to keep Ms.Wyants legacy going strong.

Ciara: Dr.Sarr has been incredibly supportive, especially during the pandemic. She has sat with me and helped me with my writing, but also she’s taken the time to understand who I am and some of my traits.

Elena: Ms.Young helped me. I struggled freshman year, and if it wasn’t for her, I don’t think I would be the person or artist I am today. As someone who creates art, she did what she had to do to make me serious about what I wanted and where I wanted to go. 

Alia: All of my Dance teachers from 4th grade through senior year impacted me. They helped build my confidence and pushed me to strive for my best every time I danced. 

Sarah: I think Mr.Norman sparked my love for chemistry. I had him all three years at SCPA because I was in Honors Chemistry and AP Chemistry, and I student-taught his regular chemistry class. If you had asked me four years ago that I’d be going into any science field, I would have told you absolutely not. I just think through his class, he taught beyond the textbook and showed us TED Talks and modern discoveries giving us hands-on, real-world experiences. Plus, he pushed me because I wasn’t always the most “on top of things” student, but he always believed in me. 

Marcia: I had an IEP (Individualized Education Program). So all of my IEP teachers like Ms.Booker, Ms.Lees, and Ms.Bruce all pushed me and told me I could be better. They encouraged me and told me that my IEP wouldn’t stop me from doing what I wanted, which meant a lot. 

Kylia: My dance teachers, Mr.Bajoza, Ms.Swinehart, and Ms.Rozow, pushed me in my technique. Coming from other outside studios, I was just kind of dancing for fun, and they tightened me up and improved my dancing all around.

Abigail: Ms.Young (Visual Art), Mr.Rizzo (Anatomy), and Mr.Lewis (AP Government)! Ms.Young pushed me to explore other mediums of art. Sculpture was one of the mediums she encouraged me to do that was challenging. Mr.Rizzo always taught us life lessons from his former students who would email in about their success or downfalls, and we’d be able to learn through that. Mr.Lewis just taught me to look at the world differently and show us different things in the news, and the news confused me because before I took his class, I didn’t realize how little I knew about how the government worked. 

 

Alia as the Sugar Plum Fairy in SCPA’s The Nutcracker

Q: In your opinion, what was the most amazing thing about going to SCPA? 

Dionne: You can find where you belong. Again, I’ve been going to SCPA since kindergarten. You can see the people you know and grew up with evolve and change. Another thing would have to be all of the opportunities to give back. I was able to be a student aide for my 3rd-grade teacher Ms. Quinones, and that was such a great experience because she was there for me in 3rd grade, and now I could be there for the new 3rd graders. 

Ciara: Having professional guest speakers in creative writing class comes to talk to the next generation of writers about how they made their passion into a career. Having those conversations about contracts, salaries, and what they did on a daily basis was extremely helpful, and being able to be vulnerable with other experienced writers was something I wouldn’t trade for anything.

Elena: I think it was just being around everyone else, who were all so talented. I can’t wait to see what my peers do in the future. Being around that creative energy all the time was really beneficial to me to have been in that environment. 

Alia: Being able to do what you love while in high school is pretty awesome! It’s kind of like a mini college, even though you get to go home afterward. Also, how accepting SCPA was. Every time I walked into that school, I knew it felt like a safe environment. There was always space to be me and connect with my art. 

Sarah: Honestly, the student body. So many people in my class did so many amazing things in school while also being vocal through protests, and the pandemic made me appreciate those around me. I grew up in a predominantly white school district and didn’t know much about the world, and I think SCPA made me more open-minded. I think SCPA just taught me how to respect myself and how to respect others. 

Marcia: I would say it’s way different than other schools. I’d talk to cousins and friends who attended other schools and think, “Wow, your school is so boring.” SCPA is definitely not boring. It’s unique and accepts all people! I couldn’t see myself at any other school because the things I did at SCPA could have gotten me bullied at other schools. I am glad I was accepted for who I was at SCPA.

Seniors Hard at Work…Or Hardly Working..

Abigail: The diversity and how open and friendly everyone is! I felt like I could go up to anyone in my class and talk to them about something. It’s also nice to see people of all races, backgrounds, and talents come together. 

Kylia: I would say being surrounded by people with the same interests as you. At a normal high school, you won’t find many people who dedicate their lives to an art form, who know the struggles of academics on top of it, and late-night rehearsals for shows and things. I was always surrounded by people who just got it which made it easier for me to feel like people understood what I was going through because we were all going through those same things! 

 

Abigail and Marcia hit the slopes!

Q: Is there a really funny memory you have from your time at SCPA you’d like to share?

Dionne: I remember when my class was younger, they’d always take us to a showing of The Nutcracker. I remember we were so loud and didn’t stop clapping between acts. Mr.Owens held us all back and banned us from seeing shows for a year. We were salty for sure, but we learned our lesson.

Ciara: Andy Grammer came to our school to perform and answer questions of the student body, and one student asked him if he’d go to prom with them! 

Elena: I don’t think there’s a funny moment in particular, but my french class was pretty entertaining.

Alia: I was in Swan Lake, and I was playing the role of the Spanish dancer. There was an in-school performance, and all my friends were there, and my skirt flew straight off! Luckily, I had things on underneath, but I had to keep dancing in character until another dancer threw the skirt off stage and ran off stage in character. I was laughing through it but was heavily embarrassed, and looking back on it makes it really funny!

All Smiles as seniors receive their Alumni T-Shirts

Sarah: I have two! In English class sophomore year, I was paired up with people I didn’t know, and we had to perform Shakespeare with a twist. We did a whole rap show with dance, and watching all of us on stage rapping Shakespeare was awesome! A more recent memory was in Drama Ensemble; we were doing a show called the hexagon collection, shows written by the creative writing department. In one of our shows, my friend Justin forgot his prop gun, so we had to continue acting on stage with his finger gun, and it was so hard not to break character. 

Marcia: I spent a lot of my lunchtime showing my age, just having fun. As a freshman, I thought I was everything, and the seniors humbled me quickly! It was funny that I thought just being in high school put me at the top because I had been at SCPA for so long, but still, I had a long way to go. 

Abigail: Mr.Rizzo had just gotten surgery, and his back was hurting, and he called Mr.Lewis into the room to crack his back. Suddenly, Mr.Lewis is standing on Mr. Rizzo’s back, and Mr.Rizzo is giving an anatomy lesson on the floor under Mr.Lewis about what’s happening to his back! 

Kylia: When the invisibility challenge was a thing, it was where you had to convince someone they were invisible. We tried to do it to Mr.Bajoza, and it didn’t work.

 

Elena and Friend at Graduation!

Q: How did you feel when you learned you won the Alumni Associations Dare to Dream Scholarship? 

Dionne: I was just overwhelmed with joy and emotion. I was like, “I won a scholarship!” The financial burden of school can be a lot, so this helps! I feel so blessed.

Ciara: I literally dropped my phone! I was so excited because this is something that will help support me to do what I’ve always wanted to do. Plus, the acknowledgment that I have people who decided to donate to that is something that I wouldn’t trade for the world!

Elena: I was very happy and was proud of myself for sure. I was a little scared before I found out because I think with essays, you want to try not to be clichè or way too personal, but still personal enough. Overall, I’m glad I won.

Alia: At the moment, I was in my room on my phone when I got the news! All I could do was scream. Both of my parents thought something terrible had happened. Overall, I felt really proud of myself and everything I’ve been able to accomplish at SCPA! Getting the scholarship helps me reflect on my time there, which adds to my great memories. 

New Dress Who Dis?

Sarah: I felt so good! I was in the middle of homework on campus when I learned I had won. So I took a break and called my mom! It felt really amazing because I don’t go to a school that provides a lot of funding for incoming students. Still, I think because of COVID-19, I didn’t feel capable of writing a good essay and winning the scholarship just confirmed that I can do this and I will be okay. 

Marcia: I found out I won at a work event. I was scrolling through my email and saw that I’d won! I was so happy, but I couldn’t really celebrate how I wanted to because I was at work. I am very honored! 

Abigail: I was surprised just because a lot of other people are so talented and better at conveying emotions on paper. I feel like I’m much better artistically, but pen and paper have always been hard. I’m so happy I took a jab at it because I didn’t want to lose out on an opportunity! 

Kylia: I was super excited because college is expensive, and being able to help myself and my parents pay for student loans is very important to me. 

 

Kylia as Arabian Dancer in SCPA’s The Nutcracker

Q: What are your current post-SCPA plans, and what led you to that decision?

Dionne: My post-SCPA plans are to attend Grambling State University for Nursing in Louisiana! I chose this path because it’s an HBCU, and I’ve always felt called to Nursing. Every woman I’ve talked to who has given birth remembers their Nurse, and I just want to be that helpful and leave a lasting impression on someone’s life. Plus, I love children! 

Ciara: I went back and forth and wasn’t sure until the last six months. During the pandemic, I was able to sit and figure out what I wanted to do. During that time, I found my faith and decided to go to Liberty University for Counseling and Biblical Studies! I have the opportunity to go and speak at conferences and stadiums coming up soon. 

Elena: I’m going to go to Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York, for film. All I’ve wanted to do throughout high school was to move to new york and pursue film! I’m really excited to be able to live my dream. 

Alia: I plan to go to Wright State University for Dance. I also want to minor in ASL or Deaf Studies because I’m half deaf, and I feel like ASL is an art form all its own. 

Officially an SCPA Alumni!

Sarah: I am going to Northwestern University for a major in Chemistry. I did a diversity in science program on the Northwestern campus over the summer. 

Marcia: I am going to UC for psychology. I will still be pursuing the arts on my own time, but I want to enter the world of psychology because I want to be a therapist. 

Abigail: I plan to go to the University of Cincinnati and Majoring in Architecture in the DAAP Program! I think Architecture is for me because I’m meticulous in art and clean-cut. It also has a 3D element to it, and that’s something I learned at SCPA. Also, over the summer, I went to nail school, and it’s been a hobby of mine since 7th grade!

Kylia: I’m going to continue dancing at East Carolina University. I also was accepted into the universities honors college. I plan to double major in both Dance and Business. 

 

Alia and friends on Graduation Day!

Q: How will the support of this scholarship help in your next steps in life? 

Ciara: This scholarship is going to support me so much in being able to do something I love! To know that this is going towards something that will change the rest of my life because of people’s generosity. 

Elena: Oh my goodness, I don’t even want to think about my tuition now! However, any financial help I can get from this scholarship will help relieve some of the stress from college costs. I’m very grateful for that. 

Alia: It will help my family financially because we’ve all been through our share of hard times. It will help me continue to do what I love: dance!

Marcia: I don’t have a lot of money, so I have to try hard to get scholarships to cover school costs. While I’ve received money for school, it’s not enough to cover everything, and this scholarship will help me get steady on campus. 

Abigail: It will help financially because college isn’t cheap! I want the college experience so that I will study on campus for at least one year, and I think this scholarship will help pay for that. 

 

Dionne showing off her Senior Yard Sign and Cap & Gown!

Q: What is something you learned at SCPA that you think will help you move forward?  

Dionne: I learned to ask questions and ask for help. There’s no fun in being stuck and not asking for help. I remember being in 7th grade, afraid to ask questions, but you never know if your question could be someone else question, and they got the answer because of you! If you don’t understand something, seek the answers because no one else will do it for you.

Ciara: I think I learned not to sacrifice the freedom of finding yourself for fitting in. I feel like when we don’t make a sacrifice for what we want, what we want becomes that sacrifice.

Elena: This is going to sound general but growing up around the people I grew up with and the experiences I had at SCPA will help me as I go off to college.

Sarah: Supporting other people, especially because things can start to get competitive in college. I think being at SCPA, being in drama ensemble, and being close with everyone in my classes have taught me how to take care of myself and others. Even though we are all competing for the same roles doesn’t mean you have to be cold towards someone else. You can support them and encourage them, and when it’s your time to shine, they can do the same for you. 

Is this virtual learning?

Marcia: I learned not to be judgemental. At SCPA, I was introduced to many different people who taught me to be accepting and open. It helped me look at myself and others in a new way and find similarities between us, as opposed to what makes us different. 

Abigail: I would say how to manage your time. You need time for your arts, you need time for your academics, but you also need time for yourself. Personal time is so important. If all you do is work, you will burn out and start resenting things you like. Taking a break is needed. 

Kylia: It’s okay not always to be the best in the room. So many talented people surrounded me, inspiring me to be better! I never want to be a big fish in a small pond, and I just want to focus on my splash! 

 

Backstage at Graduation!

Q: Last Question, If you could leave any advice for the Rising Senior Class of 2023, What advice would you give them when it comes to being an SCPA Senior? 

Ciara: Don’t be afraid to be uncomfortable. I think that If I was never uncomfortable in the situations, I was faced with, I would have never realized that the purpose of life is to grow.

Dionne: To the rising seniors, take pride in being at SCPA. It’s definitely an experience that other CPS schools don’t have. Every school has its thing, but no other school does the arts like SCPA. So take pride and make your high school experience your own. If you don’t like something or want to see something change, you have to lead by example and be the change you want to see in your school. 

Girl Gang!

 

Elena: Don’t slack off during your senior year. Senior slump is real, but if you do what I did and work really hard your senior year, you will reap the benefits later!

Alia: I would advise you to finish strong and give your best throughout the year! Senior Stress is real and will kick in. Don’t let that stop you; keep pushing because you’re so close to the finish line! 

Sarah: My biggest advice is don’t allow yourself to get overwhelmed. Spread things out and check in with yourself and your mental health. If there’s something that you can put a pause on, to clear up and focus on something else, do it. Also, remember to support your peers because you all are going through the same thing, and remember you are not alone! 

The SCPA Class of 2022

Marcia: Being early is better than being on time or late. Being early shows that you have your stuff together and have less to worry about. Be early with college admissions, essay writing, scholarship applications, and homework. Be early for everything because it will benefit you in the end but also don’t rush yourself, and take your time. 

Abigail: I am going to quote former SCPA Artistic Director Angela Powell-Walker. She told the MALITA (Making a Living in The Arts) program, “Don’t burn a bridge before you’ve crossed it,” Meaning to take every opportunity extended to you because you’d rather feel disappointment for not getting something than regret for not trying at all. 

Kylia: I have a lot of friends in this class, so this is fun! Don’t take your senior year for granted. Try to be happy and savor these last few moments as much as you can. Your senior year is something our parents reflect on even today, so we will do the same!

 

A sincere thank you goes to all of this year’s scholarship winners for sharing their stories with us! We’d also like to thank all of the class of 2022 scholarship applicants for having the largest amount of applicants thus far!

To donate to our scholarship for the SCPA class of 2023 and beyond click here to find out more information. Donations

Stay Tuned for Video Versions of these scholarship interviews… Coming soon!

Give Back to SCPA & Join an Alumni Committee

Welcome to the April 2022 edition of the official Alumni Newsletter, where we connect you with news and updates from The National Alumni Association of The Cincinnati School for Creative and Performing Arts.

 

 

Give Back to the SCPA Family
& Join a Committee!

Pictured:   Alumni Engagement Chair, Jamaica Gilliam,
and fellow alum catching up before Alumni Day!

April 2022

GET INVOLVED, JOIN A COMMITTEE.

Fellow SCPA Alums,

Many of you have asked us “How can I get involved?”  or ” What can I do to give back to SCPA?” 

Here’s your chance!  This year there are plenty of opportunities to get involved with our association.  We need your expertise and experience to serve on one of our alumni committees.  All of the committees posted below are the committees you could serve on. 

Click Here to Sign up for a Committee!
Click Here to Become a Member Now!

Alumni Engagement Committee
Chair: Jamaica Gilliam ’11
Members of the Alumni Engagement Committee will design and execute the connections with the various generations of our Alumni family. This shall be done through programing and social events that allow generations of SCPA Alumni to reconnect.

Events & Projects: Alumni Cook Out, Alumni Day, Senior Shirting, Senior Career Chats, Mentorship Programing (Coming Soon!)

 Development Committee
Co – Chairs: Lynn Fredrick Hawley ’89 & Ari DeWolf ’09
Members of the Development Committee will design and execute the fundraising program and projects of the Association in compliance with best practices of professional and ethical fundraising policies. This Committee will also be responsible for adequate stewardship of donors and donor- prospects.

Events & Projects: Alumni at Musical Event, Future is Now Campaign, Giving Tuesday Fundraising Event, Membership Building

Scholarship Committee
Chair: William Chaney ’79
Members of the Scholarship Committee will design, plan, pick, and disburse scholarships on behalf of the Alumni Association.

Events & Projects: The Dare to Dream Scholarship (Yearly)

Governance Committee
Chair: Dana Bradley ’82
The Governance Committee shall be responsible for nominations, elections, by-laws, and parliamentarian procedure.

Events & Projects:  Parliamentarian Procedures and Annual Board Elections

Marketing and Communications Committee
Chair: Robyn Rex Cassidy ’82
Members of the M&C Committee will be responsible for mass media communication using print and electronic methods and activities that tell of and reflect the Association values and beliefs, actions, individual member stories, group activities, Board actions, fundraising efforts. This written communication and programming of the Committee will reflect the core brand of the Association, that is, all that the Association values and how it achieves those values in service of the Association’s mission.

Events & Projects:  All Marketing and Communication Sources for the Board and Committees, Bi-Monthly Alumni Bravo Newsletter, Social Media, Promotional Posters/Flyers, Design and Sale of Alumni Merchandise, Alumni Registry Upkeep

It is through the work of these committees that the brothers and sisters of our Association will remain connected.

Click the link to sign up and learn more about serving on an Alumni Committee at NAACSCPA Alumni Committee Sign Up or email info@scpaalumni.org to request more information.

You must be a dues paying alumni member in order to serve as chair on a committee! Register with us or log into your account on our alumni website to start the process of becoming a member. To become a member click here SCPAALUMNI.ORG.

OUR ALUMNI ASSOCIATIONS MISSION:

The Association’s Mission is to strengthen connections among and between the School’s alumni, current students, faculty, and staff; to provide valued services, as defined by the policies adopted by the Association’s Board of Directors from time to time; to provide ongoing financial support for the School; and to support the School’s mission of fostering academic and artistic excellence.

We can’t wait to serve the association and build connections along side you! 

Yours in service,

National Alumni Association of the Cincinnati

School for Creative & Performing Arts (NAAcSCPA)

Creating their own Futures

Each one of our 2021 Scholarship Winners has an exceptionally bright future & we celebrate all of their success! Read all about their success and their Journeys in the article below!  Click Here to Read More!

Stay Connected

To stay up to date on all things SCPA ALUMNI, visit our website for updates and more information on how you can be involved!
 

Click Here for More Information

DONATE TO THE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

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Copyright © 2021 National Alumni Association of the Cincinnati School for Creative & Performing Arts, All rights reserved.

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This E-Message or Newsletter has been put together by
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Our Mission: The Association’s Mission is to strengthen connections among and between the School’s alumni, current students, faculty, and staff; to provide valued services, as defined by the policies adopted by the Association’s Board of Directors from time to time; to provide ongoing financial support for the School; and to support the School’s mission of fostering academic and artistic excellence.

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Annual Meeting 2022

Welcome to the March 2022 edition of the official Alumni Newsletter, where we connect you with news and updates from The National Alumni Association of The Cincinnati School for Creative and Performing Arts.

March 2022

Dear SCPA Alums,

REMINDER: The 2022 Annual Meeting will be held on March 5th, 2022!

We are excited to announce the 2022 Annual Meeting of the National Alumni Association of the Cincinnati School for Creative and Performing Arts (NAAcSCPA).

The meeting will be held on Saturday,  March, 5th  from 10 am -12  via zoom. 

Meeting ID: 941 409 8684
Passcode: SCPA

SCPA Alumni Information is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9414098684?pwd=WUE1NWZIMHVuc1ZlbjJ2NEE4TFBqZz09

During the meeting, we will install the newly elected board of directors and officers. New board members are: Lynn Frederick Hawley, Stephanie Jeter, Semion Androne, and Criag Hartl-Rangel Bahia.

We would also like to introduce our newly-elected alumni board officers!

President – Joshua Trotter ’14
Vice President – Dana Bradley ’82
Secretary- Rannie McCants ’12
Treasurer- Semion Androne ’91


AGENDA:
 

National Alumni Association of Cincinnati School for Creative & Performing Arts

Recognition, Installation and Annual Meeting

Saturday, March 7th 2022

10:00 AM-12:00 PM

Virtual Meeting via Zoom
 

Welcome 
Tomica Chitterson – Alumni President 2021

S.C.P.A. Administration Update

Angela Powell-Walker  – SCPA Artistic Director (TBA)

 

Annual Meeting Agenda

President Report/ Year in Review – Tomica Chitterson

Treasurer Report – Vicka Bell-Robinson

Committee Reports

Marketing and Communications 

Development 

Scholarship

Alumni Engagement 

Governance 

Installation of 2022 Board of Directors and Officers

Presenting the new board members – Joshua Trotter, Alumni President 2022

Final Remarks – Joshua Trotter, Alumni President 2022

Adjournment

OUR MISSION:

The Association’s Mission is to strengthen connections among and between the School’s alumni, current students, faculty, and staff; to provide valued services, as defined by the policies adopted by the Association’s Board of Directors from time to time; to provide ongoing financial support for the School, and to support the School’s mission of fostering academic and artistic excellence.
___________________________________________________________________

These are really exciting moments for the alumni of SCPA. We look forward to sharing them with you on March 5th, as we set the stage for our journey into the next year, together.

Sincerely,

National Alumni Association of the Cincinnati
School for Creative & Performing Arts (NAACSCPA)

Email: info@scpaalumni.org
Website: scpaalumni.org
Facebook:  http://facebook.com/groups/scpaalumniofficial
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2021 Scholarship Winner Interviews

Dare to Dream Scholarship Winners  Interview Q/A 2021

Interview by Joshua Trotter ‘14

2021 Scholarship Winners: 

Sara Reynolds ‘21 – Point Park University – Musical Theatre

Connie Viars ‘21 – Northern Kentucky University – Dance

Elliott Brown ‘21- The Ohio State University – Arts Management

Maya Norman ‘21- Baldwin Wallace University – Acting/ Arts Management/ Entrepreneurship

This scholarship was only made possible by the generosity of our Dues-paying Alumni Membership and other supportive donations we were able to award our 2021 winners with a total of $3,000!
OUR BIGGEST SCHOLARSHIP AWARD TO DATE! 

You can help support the goals of a member of the Class of 2022!

When you become a dues-paying member of the SCPA Alumni Association not only are you supporting our association, you are personally donating to the future of an SCPA senior through a needed scholarship! 

Click Here To Become A Member of the Association

________________________________________________________________________________________________

Alumni Board Member Joshua Trotter ’14 got to sit down with the 2021 Dare to Dream Scholarship Recipients to talk about their experiences at SCPA and what they will take with them on their paths into college and beyond!  

Q: Tell us a little bit about yourself. Who you are, When did you first start attending SCPA, and what your major was?

Sara: My name is Sara Reynolds. I obviously just graduated from SCPA. I started attending SCPA in the 5th Grade, and my majors started out as Vocal and Orchestra. I stuck with Orchestra until about 7th grade and when I became eligible for more Musical Theatre stuff I stuck with Musical Theatre and Vocal.

Connie: My name is Connie Viars. I came to SCPA four years ago when I was a freshman. I was a Dance Major. I was attracted to SCPA because I heard I would get to dance every day! 

Elliott: I’m Elliott Brown and I was a Vocal Major. I started attending SCPA my freshman year of high school. I came from a really small catholic school so it was a big change for sure. 

Maya: My name is Maya Norman and I was a drama major and I’ve attended SCPA since the first grade when it was Schiel. 

Q: What originally got you interested in the arts? 

Sara: I was about 6 or 7 and my older sister, my middle sister pushed me to do theatre camp. It was a small theatre camp on my side of town and we were putting on Annie Jr. The first day of the camp we had to audition for the parts we were going to get. We had to sing and I cried so hard because I was terrified. The woman who ran the camp had to come up and sing it with me but after that theatre was like a bug and I’ve loved it ever since then.

Connie: It’s kinda funny, I grew up watching High School Musical and I always tried to learn the moves and sing along so I think that’s where I fell in love. I also did Gymnastics and was on a competition dance team since age six.

Elliott: I would say I’ve always loved music. When I was in preschool I remember I’d ask my Dad to play his favorite Maxwell songs. I remember not being afraid to sing Alica Keys for my teachers. I even went through a Michael Jackson phase! So music and performing has always been a part of me. 

Maya: I’ve always liked performing and I was always the one dressing up my family members with different hats and clothing and would have them act and then I would perform for them because I wanted to be the star! So I owe my passion to my family. 

Maya Norman and Aftab Prueval (Hamilton County Clerk of Courts) at SCPA Graduation!

Q: Is there a teacher at SCPA (Academic or in the arts)  that really pushed you or challenged you in any way?

Sara: Definitely Ms.Wyant (Vocal), I was in the children’s choir then in 7th grade I started taking more lessons with her. She’s definitely been my confidant all throughout my time at SCPA. Also, Lea and Drew Lachey (Music Theatre) have always really pushed me and had more faith in me than I had in myself at times.

Connie: All 3 of my Dance teachers Mr. Bajoza, Mrs. Rozow, and Ms. Swienhart really would like to push me and help me develop new skills. Also, my chemistry teacher Mr.Norman would push me to complete all my work in his class. He really challenged me and I’m thankful and better because of it. 

Elliott: I’d have to mention Mr.Stuckey (Jazz), Mr.Hand (Vocal), and Lea Lachey (Music Theatre). Mr.Stuckey was always so funny and inclusive with me because I was in his music engineering class and I’d never experienced a class like that. The same was true for Meridian 8 with Mr. Hand. All my teachers were very pristine and particular about sound and music. I learned a lot.

Maya: My top 3… Ms.Kleesattel (Drama/Stage Management), Mr.Crowley (Drama), and  Mr. Lugars (Math). I love Crowley and Lugar because they really pushed me in class but also they just talked to us as people and were very respectful. Ms.Kleesattel holds a special place in my heart. She was the first teacher to cast me in a show and she also was the last person to cast me in a show at SCPA my senior year! She was a constant supportive force in my corner in everything I wanted to do. 

Sara Reynolds (Far right) and her 2021 friends in front of SCPA for a celebratory picture!

Q: In your opinion, what was the most amazing thing about going to SCPA?

Sara: The performance opportunities as well as the collaboration that students got to have when we worked together on things like the Major Musical. I love how all of us would start rehearsing or working separately, and as the weeks went on the techies, the orchestra, and all the other needed elements for a show would seamlessly blend together.

Connie: Seeing all the Majors that supported each other. Visual artists that went to the Dramas or Creative Writers that showed up to the ballets and vice versa. 

Elliott: Oh my gosh, I’d have to say doing shows and being backstage with everyone and honestly rehearsing and having time to laugh and work with friends. Watching all the pieces of a show come together was probably the best part for me. 

Maya: The community of supportive people and the skill sets you to learn. I think the skill set you learn at SCPA of how to carry yourself but also how to work with others is really great. Those things can only be taught in an environment where the teaching staff is coming from the real world and wants to introduce you to those skills so you’ll be prepared.

Q: It’s no secret that the COVID -19 Pandemic stole a part of the class of 2021’s senior year. What was that time like for all of you and what senior event do you wish you could still participate in?

Sara: I remember at the end of Junior year we all thought it was only going to last a few months. I felt really bad for the class of 2021. I knew Senior year was going to be really different but I just thought we’d be masked but we were all online and things kept changing back and forth. I didn’t even participate in the Major Musical because of how stressful it was. 

Connie: The pandemic gave me a lot of time to think about what I wanted to do for my next steps. Being split apart from my friends who came to school on opposite days and the fact we didn’t have homecoming was upsetting. So it was good for focus and being alone but not being able to be with everyone made it extremely hard. 

Elliott: Honestly, it was like disappointment after disappointment. Your senior year you look forward to all these different events and experiences and overnight everything was unknown. At one point all of our classes were online and everyone, teachers, and students were just stressed out. Still, the class of 2021 hung in there and we graduated! 

Maya: I was 2021 Class President, and I knew we would have to try to still make this year memorable in spite of the pandemic. I really tried to be there for my classmates and support them from everything from college to prom and graduation. My class made the decision to do graduation outside at Riverbend Music Center so it would be both a safe and meaningful ceremony. SCPA students know how to pivot but this was another level. It was a lot of hard work for the seniors and our teachers but I think we still made it through. We still got to keep the traditions like class day and the shows alive! I’m proud of us.

Q: When you found out you won the Alumni Associations Dare to Dream Scholarship, How did you feel? 

Sara: I was very excited and relieved because college is expensive! I am truly grateful for the scholarship and those who chose me! It’s like a breath of fresh air.

Connie: My mom told me I won a scholarship and I was like “No, not me.. Right?”  I was pleasantly surprised. I had no idea because I don’t usually win these types of things.

Elliott: Well, it’s kinda funny because I don’t usually answer calls I don’t know. So when I got the call to tell me I won the scholarship I didn’t answer it. When I called back and was told I won, my mom was so happy for me! I was happy but a little embarrassed that I didn’t answer the phone sooner! I’ll have to clean out my voicemail from now on! But I’m very grateful and just glad that I was even considered for the scholarship. 

Maya: Oh my gosh! I was lowkey surprised! I was at work when I found out and I just felt like everything was falling into place when I got that news. My graduation party was approaching and I just got some money from school as well. It also got me excited to know that I was joining N’daya and Madison from the class of 2020 on that list of Alumni Scholarship Recipients. 

Connie Viars posing next to her Graduation Yard Signs and pointing to her College Acceptance Sign for Northern Kentucky University!

Q: What are your current post SCPA plans and what led you to that decision? 

Sara: I’m going to Point Park University in Downtown Pittsburgh! I will be getting my BFA in Musical Theatre. I know a few SCPA Alumni who go there so I have a community in Pittsburgh that I can turn to. 

Connie: I’m going to NKU as a Dance BFA major. I’m going to room with my sister! I’m staying local so I can still be close to friends and family.

Elliott: I am attending The Ohio State University majoring in Arts Management. I’m excited to get out of Cincinnati and explore on my own but I’m more so interested in exploring my major because It contributes to what I hope to do in the future. 

Maya: I will be going to Baldwin Wallace University in Cleveland, OH for Acting/Directing, Arts Management, and Entrepreneurship. Not too far from home and not too close. 

Q: How will the support of this scholarship help in your next steps in life?

Sara:  To know that I’m going to have a little extra boost for my freshman year is really good news! It makes me worry a little less and focus on what I’m in school to do.

Connie: It’s going to help me go to school and do what I love to do and not have to worry about the financial burden that goes along with going to college. I am very happy to have it.

Elliott: Besides the money part and getting that financial help with school, I’m just proud I was able to be a part of the scholarship. I’ve never won something like this before and I’m happy it can help with my journey in the future. 

Maya: I’m going to a private school and there are so many things I know it will help with! Books, Meal Plans, Housing, the scholarship will be able to ease the burden of those expenses. Oh, and dance shoes because I know I have to take a dance class in the first semester! 

Elliott Brown showing off her Graduation Dress as well as her many tassels, Corbett-Mayerson Award, and National Honor Society Stole!

Q: What is something you learned at SCPA that you think will help you move forward?

Sara: Honestly just professionalism, how to operate in a professional environment. I also have developed a good work ethic. At SCPA you have to learn the balance between AP classes and the major musical, and that teaches you to dig deep and get it all done and I think I will take all of that with me. 

Connie: I feel like I’ve learned to be self-sufficient but also I’ve learned to lean on other people. I learned when to reach out for help and when to do things for myself and push myself to do something. 

Elliott: I have learned that everyone has something that gets them going. Everyone has their own amount of spunk and spice. I think when you get to know people you start to understand who you are and what you want. So I would say I’ve learned to be understanding and I’ve learned to be more myself. 

Maya: Positivity goes a long way. It sounds simple but it’s really not. You never know if someone is having a hard day but by simply being positive you can help make it better. SCPA taught me that.

Q: If you could leave any advice for the Rising Senior Class of 2022, What advice would you give them when it comes to being an SCPA Senior? 

Sara: Try to enjoy the moments that come along with Senior Year! There are so many silly things about senior year that I missed out on and I didn’t realize how much I was actually looking forward to it. So try to enjoy the moments that you have and lean into them, cherish them. 

Connie: Put effort into your senior year! I know it’s easy to slack off because you’re almost out of there but keep pushing. Senior year is probably the most important time to push yourself because you will definitely continue to grow this year. 

Elliott: Take those chances, take those opportunities, and even if they don’t work out you can say at least I tried. Also, keep your friends close this year, those relationships are important. Lastly, continue to strive for your goals because it is possible if you really want it!

Maya: Don’t slack off! Don’t slack off on your college things and even if you decide not to go to college, whatever you want to do- do it now! Always try to have a plan! Whatever, your plan in life is work at it, write it down, make it happen. 

A sincere thank you goes to all of this year’s scholarship winners for sharing their stories with us! To donate to our scholarship for the SCPA class of 2022 click here to find out more information. Donations

Welcome Class of 2021 Alumni!

*Pictured: Lauren: Kent State University, Sara: Point Park, Eve: Agnes Scott College, McKenzie: Sinclair

We welcome the SCPA Class of 2021 into the Alumni Association with open arms as they have committed themselves to Artistic and Academic Excellence even in the midst of a pandemic! 

A few highlights from SCPA’s Class of 2021:

– High Graduation Rate

– Excellence in Arts and Academics

– Most accepted into a 2-4 year college program

– Produced SCPA traditions in a pandemic: Major Musical, Prom, Senior Showcase, Class Day

We were filled with joy as each senior crossed the stage to receive their diploma of graduation, each became and was officially welcomed, as a full member of the National Association of Cincinnati School for Creative and Performing Arts with a complimentary membership for the first 18 months after graduation -According to the Bylaws of the Association. We look forward to their participation and leadership.

We are proud of the achievements of this class. The Association is committed to supporting them and all our alumni with a wide range of services that can only come from the SCPA family. For each new sister and brother, we wish a lifetime of good health and courage, abundant productivity; and love.

Your extended family,

The Alumni Assoication

___________________________________________________________________

Some Alumni have submitted well wishes for the class of 2021!

Congratulations to you new graduates! You have made it through some of the roughest times of 2020 and 2021! You are prepared by SCPA, family, and friends! You shall flourish and be triumphant in your journeys of life! Remember where you came from strap up your boots and prepare to take over the world! We will always be here to support each and everyone of you! Knowing you shall all do the best for yourselves and mankind! Much love to all of you graduates! – KT ’84

Get a higher education degree; always continue learning and reading even after graduation; and always practice and *expand* your craft. Never forget to love and help others along the way and put God first! – John C. ’79

Explore the world and every facet of who you are. Learn and perfect your craft. LEARN THE BUSINESS BEHIND YOUR CRAFT. Aim and strive to be impactful in everything you do. The world is a hard place, but you’re more than ready to handle and face it. Fight until the end. As long as you have breath in your body, there is always more to do on the earth and beyond! Good luck and I’m praying for you guys! Reach out if you need anything. – Charles R ’15

Never stop learning and looking at the world as an artist. SCPA has prepared you for that. Drink water, breathe, take care of your mental and physical health, and don’t give up. – Joshua T – ’14

 

 

Dare to Dream Scholarship Winners 2020

June 6th, 2020

DARE TO DREAM SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS 2020!

Dear SCPA Alumni,

We are pleased to announce that we have chosen our first two recipients of the Dare to Dream Scholarship for 2020. Our winners are none other than Ndaya Hoskins and Madison Sickmeier.  Both recipients of this year’s scholarship are college bound and our $500 scholarships will aide them as they transition into their first year as college students. Ndaya is planning to attend Pace University and will major in Musical Theater. Madison is planning to attend the College of Charleston and will major in Marine Biology. Our recipients met all of the scholarship requirements and wrote remarkable essays about the personal challenges they’ve had to overcome. It is our personal wish to make Ndaya and Madison representatives for the class of 2020 as we move to stay connected with them in the future.

Our Associations theme for this year is to “create the legacy” and it is establishing efforts such as these that will allow for a legacy to grow from our time on the board. For that we thank you; The members and supporters of the Alumni. Two months ago we came together as a board and decided we wanted to develop and give a scholarship for these students. Through our diligence we have been able to give birth to something special in the mists of this COVID-19 Pandemic, where normal operations forced us to be apart and be creative and we are so proud of our scholarship team for continuing to push through for this!

This is not the end of the road when it comes to this project. We want to see the Dare to Dream Scholarship continue to grow in both our number of applicants and the amount of scholarships we give out in the future. We also want to make sure our Alumni communities collective voice is heard when putting together scholarship opportunities moving forward.

In the weeks to come we plan to conduct and release interviews on social media so you can meet our scholarship winners.

With the future of education in this pandemic still unclear we want to make sure that we have Scholarship opportunities established for the talented SCPA Class of 2021. If you would like to make a donation to the Dare to Dream Scholarship 2021 click this link: https://scpaalumni.org/donate/ and leave a note with your donation under “Scholarship Fund” or if you have questions you can contact our Alumni scholarship team via email at scholarships@scpaalumni.org.

Once again thank you for supporting the Alumni Association. It is because of your support we are able to lift up the next generation of exellence and help them create their legacies.

Thanks,

The NAACSCPA Board of Directors

 

Membership Information

We’re here!
After more than 40 years, The Alumni Association has arrived!
Now, it is time to join together to secure our Family bonds for all time.
Why?

In brief, because the mission of the Alumni Association is twofold:

  • To serve the alumni
  • To provide financial and volunteer support to SCPA

Building a competent Alumni Association will help us ensure that we are able to carry out the Association’s mission.

Your annual membership fee ($40 or less) will support the Association’s daily operations: governance, administration, finance, marketing, development, and alumni event programming. These are the elements that will ensure a competent, long-lasting Association. A strong Alumni Association will in turn help ensure the long-term success of SCPA.

Membership dues for recent SCPA graduates are waived for the first 18 months. From 18 months to 4 years after graduation, dues are set at a reduced annual rate of $20.

ANNUAL DUES STRUCTURE

First 18 months after graduation: $0/year
18 months – 4 years after graduation: $20/year
After 4 years: $40/year

So, why join? To enjoy the programs and services the Association will provide you and your class as it begins raising significant money for the school, we also are developing other social and networking events just for you.

We are pleased that there is a place for everyone who believes in the life and growth of our Alumni Association and, in turn, the life of SCPA.

Welcome to our official family organization!

Membership Levels

Please note: if you feel that your specific relationship to SCPA or alumnus status isn’t represented within these membership levels, please just reach out to us at info@scpaalumni.org. We would be happy to discuss your individual circumstances so we can come to a mutual agreement as to what membership level best suits you.

Alumni President Address to SCPA Class of 2020

 

 

HELPFUL COVID-19 SERVICES

HELPFUL SERVICES FOR COVID-19

OUR ALUMNI FAMILY IS THINKING OF YOU

WE HOPE YOU ARE SAFE AND SURROUNDED BY LOVE!

– 2020 NAAcSCPA Board of Directors

 

PLEASE NOTE:  Check the dates and sources for information you consume to ensure it is accurate and reliable. Some links may have passed the window of opportunity. Most of the support listed below effects the states of Ohio, Kentucky, or Indiana. Copy and Paste the links if you need them. 

 

LOCAL Emergency Resources:

Cincinnati Crisis Information Directory

Police/Fire 911

Family Violence Hotline 221-HELP (4357)

Women Helping Women 381-5610 (24 hour hotline)

https://www.womenhelpingwomen.org/home/contact/

Lighthouse Crisis Center 961-4080

Rape Crisis and Abuse Center 381-5610

YWCA Alice Paul House 241-2757

Crises & Suicide Hotline ..281-CARE (2273)

Cincinnati Police District #3 263-8300

Health

Hopple Street Health Center 541-4500

Good Sam Free Clinic 513-246-6888

Mobile Crisis Team (Mental Health) 558-8577

The Disaster Distress Helpline, 1-800-985-5990

Mental Health Access Point. 558-8888

Talbert House 853-6575

Social Services/ Assistance

United Way 211

Cincinnati Area Senior Services 721-4330

Homelessness

Homeless Hotline 381-SAFE (7233)

Recovery

Cincinnati AA Helpline 351-0422

Heroin Hopeline 1-877-695-6333

 

  1. The Ohio Health Department:

https://odh.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/odh/know-our-programs/Novel-Coronavirus/2019-nCoV

COVID-19 Checklists/Info Sheets:

https://coronavirus.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/covid-19/home/covid-19-checklists/covid-19-checklists

  1. COVID-19 Hotlines:

Ohio Department of Health COVID-19 hotline: 833-4-ASK-ODH

Kentucky State COVID-19 hotline: 1-800-722-5725

Indiana SDH Epidemiology Resource Center: (317) 233-7125 or (317) 233-1325 after hours, or e-mail epiresource@isdh.in.gov

  1. Centers For Disease Control and Prevention: https://www.cdc.gov/

  • lnfOhio: https://www.infohio.org/blog/item/keep-calm-and-carry-on-with-infohio

 

  • City of Cincinnati Website- COVID-19 Updates: https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov/covid19/

 

  • The World Health Organization- COVID-19 Updates: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/events-as-the y-happen

 

 

Mental Health:

  • NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) COVID-19 Information and Resources: https://www.nami.org/getattachment/About-NAMI/NAMI-News/2020/NAMI-Updates-on-th e-Coronavirus/COVID-19-Updated-Guide-1.pdf?lang=en-US

 

  • Care for Your Coronavirus Anxiety: https://www.virusanxiety.com/?fbclid=lwAR2uXNiZVX2aWpr9j28S703kOkWtRm wj0Ax13fObWo3tmjvMR5Jb8svgJ4g

 

  • CDC Stress and Coping during COVID-19: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prepare/managing-stress-anxiety.html

  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255 https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/

 

  • SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) National Lifeline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357) https://www.samhsa.gov/

Mental Health- Children & Families:

  1. Mindpeace: https://mindpeacecincinnati.com/
  1. Parenting Skills/Psychoeducation about Mental Health Issues in Children: www.smarterparenting.com
  2. How to Talk to Your Kids about Coronavirus: https://www.pbs.org/parents/thrive/how-to-talk-to-your-kids-about-coronavirus?fbclid=lw AR1 LMgXs9YBuBcWCCZAtc4iHsXwyuy5NG SuRyGI-YDTwc6LJWd41 HJ cg PM

  • Children’s Hospital: Psychiatric Intake Response Center (PIRC): 513-636-4124 or psychiatryresponse@cchmc.org.

 

  • National Child Traumatic Stress Network: Parent/Caretaker Guide to Helping Families Cope: https://www.nctsn.org/sites/default/files/resources/fact-sheet/outbreak factsheet 1.pdf?f bclid=lwAR0JvpBr8YWF1 ih7vpNUANp7E45ItQuQFSm0zZpHYE g6-lmXRVpsNcsMpc

 

  • Child Mind Institute- Coping with Stress and Anxiety, Behavior Management Strategies https://childmind.org/coping-during-covid-19-resources-for-parents/

 

  • 30 Games and Activities to Teach Self-Regulation: https://theinspiredtreehouse.com/self-regulation/

 

  1. NPR Online Resource to Teach Kids About the Coronavirus (Comic+ Written Description) https://www.npr.org/sections/goatsandsoda/2020/02/28/809580453/just-for-kids-a-comic­ exploring-the-new-coronavirus

  • Cosmic Kids Yoga (mindfulness practice): https://www.youtube.com/user/CosmicKidsYoga

 

Support for Individuals with Disabilities:

  1. Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities Resources and Guides: https://dodd.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/dodd/about-us/our-programs/resource-dodd-covid-1 9-support
  2. Autism Society of America’s online Resource list https://www.autism-society.org/news/covid-19-preparedness-and-resources/?emci=e98b 2f94-6b65-ea 11-a94c-00155d03b5dd&emdi=f5f1 f2b8-9065-ea 11-a94c-00155d03b5dd& ceid=756736

Exercise:

  • Planet Fitness (via Facebook Live):

 

Free streaming workouts for everyone regardless if you are a member or not! 7pm nightly on Facebook Live- you can watch later if you miss it. Exercise reduces stress! https://www.wral.com/planet-fitness-offering-free-online-at-home-workouts-starting-marc h-16/19014453/

  • Online workouts from the YMCA: https://myy.org/my-y-videos
  • Down Dog Yoga App: Free through April 1st! https://www.downdogapp.com/
  • Cosmic Kids Yoga: https://www.youtube.com/user/CosmicKids Yoga

 

Substance Use / Recovery:

  • Smart Recovery: https://www.smartrecovery.org/ – (online meeting options)
  • AA Online Options for pre-recorded recovery speakers and tapes: https://www.aaspeaker.com/
  • https://www.recoveryaudio.org/
  1. PIER Recovery Community Center (phone/online support, based in NKY): (859) 547-6539

https://www.pierrcc.org/?fbclid=lwAR2JJX5aKt1 EgGa2nKCw3Xi9cguegc6i96SkVWsnD3 RgeEamEkHKpJxlxdk

  • Connections App- Smartphone App to Help with Recovery: https://www.addictionpolicy.org/connections-app?fbclid=lwAROc5g2ZijpxVm273lluhW5B NDJpCHMY5PbObRFecs6JAYD1iEVrBVdecpY

 

 

Food/Other Assistance:

Many private businesses and restaurants are offering free food/lunches to children and others in their immediate community. Please check with local restaurants to see who may be doing this in your area! I’ll try my best to keep this list updated.

  • United Way hotline- Dial 211 or visit http://www.referweb.net/uwgc/

 

Call to find updated information about food banks and other assistance in your area.

  • Freestore Foodbank (112 E. Liberty St.)

 

Food boxes are available from 9:00 am-3:00 pm Monday-Friday to be picked up in the service bay area. Keep it moving folks- no hanging out, grab your box and go!

***Limit 1 box per month- 55 Jb. box to include milk and produce***

  • St. Vincent De Paul (1125 Bank St.)- (food, charitable pharmacy, social services, birth certifi cates/IDs)

 

Food pantry open M-F 8:00 am-4:30pm.

***Please call 513-421-0602 for all social service requests*** https://www.svdpcincinnati.org/Get Help/Need Assistance/

Check this website for changes to service delivery: https://www.svdpcincinnati.org/News/Updates On Changes In Services Due To Health Concerns Around Coronavirus/

  1. The Healing Center Food Pantry (Springdale Vineyard):

Pre-packaged grocery and personal care items available for drive-thru pick-up

Wednesday-Saturday: 9-11 am

Thursday: 6:30p-8pm

https://www.healingcentercincinnati.org/healing-center-times-directions

  • Cincinnati Public Schools breakfasts and lunches: Meals will be served 3 days a week:

 

Mondays & Wednesdays: 11 am-1pm (2 breakfast meals, 2 lunch meals)

Fridays: 11 am-1pm (1 breakfast meal, 1 lunch meal) All meals will exceed USDA nutritional requirements.

Check this website for specific pick-up locations: https://www.cps-k12.org/news/whats-new/cps-student-dining-services-me al-pick-sites

  1. Cincinnati Public Libraries:

“Shelf stable, ready to eat meals will be distributed on Monday-Friday at the following times and locations, and can be taken home or to another location.” All libraries are currently closed.

  • 12-1 pm: Elmwood Place, Groesbeck, Madisonville, North Central, Reading and Main Library
  • 2-3 pm: Avondale, Bond Hill, College Hill, Pleasant Ridge, West End, and Westwood
  • 4-5 pm: Corryville, Covedale, Deer Park, St. Bernard, and Walnut Hills

https://www.cincinnatilibrary.org/services/afterschoolsnacks.html?fbclid=lwAR3M wCojkw5WoYnpjSZLcj5Wr3IXV–3DUzDWWuSWbOCMCblzDEHgLXQwrw

  1. Ohio Department of Education- Map of School Meal Distribution Sites:

http://education.ohio.gov/Topics/Student-Supports/Coronavirus/Supporting-Whol e-Child-Nutrition

  • Red Rose Jems Pizzeria (5915 Hamilton Ave, College Hill, 513-620-7673)

4:00 pm-6:00 pm, M-F. Free pizza meal for kids, fresh fruits and vegetables for families.

  • Revive City Church- (distributing outside of Dater Montessori- 2840 Boudinot) Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday – 11 :30 am-1:00 pm

Power packs, personal care bags and some pantry items that are available to families and/or individuals whoever needs it to drive through, grab, and go

  1. Hamilton County Job and Family Services Updates (continually updated)

-Info about unemployment benefits, Child Protective Services (family visits, child support, foster services), Assistance programs (SNAP, Cash Assistance, PRC funds), and General resources

https://www.hcjfs.org/coronavirus-updates-and-jfs-services/

  1. CVS Updates on Insurance Coverage + Medication Access + Medication Delivery:

https://cvshealth.com/newsroom/press-releases/cvs-health-response-coronavirus -outbreak

  1. Walgreens:

Waiving delivery fees for all eligible prescriptions: https://news.walgreens.com/press-releases/general-news/walgreens-takes-furthe r-action-to-support-customers-duri ng-covid-19-pandem ic.htm

  1. Find Help:

Enter your zip code to filter resources locally. PLEASE CALL AHEAD to learn about specific hours of operation/eligibility requirements https://findhelp.org/

Women and Babies: 

Cradle Cincinnati: https://www.cradlecincinnati.org/

Financial:

**Per Aftab Pureval on 3/13/2020: The Hamilton County Courthouse is limiting public access and suspending evictions for the next 30 days. Here is some more info about court related adjustments:

https://www.cincinnati.com/story/news/2020/03/13/coronavirus-courts-suspend-jury-trials -limit-court-operations/5046231002/?fbclid= lwAR1 UEaYWmEn iCigBIAc0B8g88IfuzL3 hU0HiWEnmlRPHvh2IaH Fs6I-M

***Duke Energy and Cincinnati Water Works are suspending all disconnections and shut-offs for the time being.

https://www.cincinnati.com/story/news/2020/03/13/dont-worry-utilities-duke-energy-cincin nati-water-works-suspending-disconnection/5044367002/

***The Federal government will “temporarily suspend the interest it collects on student loans during the coronavirus pandemic, and federal lenders will let borrowers suspend their student loans and loan payments without penalty for the next 60 days (starting 3/13/2020).”

Contact your loan servicer online or by phone to take advantage

https://www.cleveland.com/coronavirus/2020/03/president-trump-suspends-student-loan­ interest-allows-payment-delays-during-coronavirus-pandemic.html?utm medium=social &utm campaign=clevelanddotcom sf&utm source=facebook&fbclid= lwAR0ypblvJzi1roJ 3h9TUylylsx5w0E6fnugQGgdL8-mDetG-4TikUgFDZg0

  1. COVID-19 Regional Response Funds: https://www.gcfdn.org/covid-19reguestfunding or call 1-866-211-9966

News story about this fund- check for updates: https://www.wcpo.com/news/our-community/positively-cincinnati-covid-19-region al-response-fund-to-help-people-hurt-financially-by-pandemic?fbclid= lwAR0g 2c TU4855IaYPSU 1 TKkQcAucfWXnreE8BdwEn2bjAdUmnLKg8AluVWA

  • Apply for Unemployment: (2000180- Mass lay-off number to use when applying)

 

Per Governor Dewine:

    • Individuals quarantined by a health professional or by their employer are considered to be unemployed and will not be subject to the requirement to actively seek work.
    • Companies that determine it necessary to temporarily shut down operations will also be eligible to seek unemployment.

The 1-week waiting period prior to receiving benefits is being waived. The requirement that recipients actively search for work while receiving benefits has been waived. https://unemployment.ohio.gov/

Processing Centers where filed claims are sent (includes contact info):

Must know the last 4 digits of your social security number. The left side of the chart has ranges of numbers- find where yours fits and follow the chart to the right to find the phone number of the processing center that is handling your claim.

http://jfs.ohio.gov/ouio/claims-processing-center-locations.stm

Check the status of an unemployment claim:

System is often overloaded- check back frequently https://unemployment.cmt.ohio.gov/cmtview/index.html

Frequently asked questions about unemployment during COVID-19:

http://jfs.ohio.gov/ouio/CoronavirusAndUl.stm

HCJFS Guide to Filing for Unemployment:

https://www.hcjfs.org/media/Unemployment-Guide.pdf

  1. HCJFS (Hamilton County Job & Family Services):

***In-person interviews and work requirements are currently suspended for public assistance programs***

  • Prevention, Retention, and Contingency (PRC) Funds:

 

    • Once-a-year support to Hamilton County residents with custody of a child. PRC is available for families with income under 200% of the poverty level ($43,440 for a family of three). PRC money can be used to help pay for baby items, gas cards, bus passes, utility bills and more. Learn more and apply here:
      • https://www.hcjfs.org/services/job-placement/prevention-retention-and-co ntingency-funds

  • SNAP (Supplemental Food Assistance Program/Food Stamps):

 

      • New recipients can apply online or call 513-946-1000 (expect to wait on hold)

https://www.hcjfs.org/services/food-assistance/

      • Current Consumers can call 1-844-640-6446 between 8 a.m. and noon each business day and we will ensure their case is certified timely with no break in assistance.

  • Cash Assistance:

 

      • For Temporary Assistance to Needy Families TANF assistance (cash), the agency looks at the last 30 days of income but takes into account income changes reported by the client and, once verified, uses that to determine projected income. https://www.hcjfs.org/services/cash-assistance/

  • Bartender Emergency Assistance Program: https://www.usbgfoundation.org/beap

 

  • COVID-19 Artist Resources (musicians, authors, freelancers, etc.): https://docs.google.com/document/d/1SL6gDve5btwk-kagMMT 9Hy6XScjtWfs7 -JgVZlihNM/mobilebasic?fbclid=lwAR2KrSilylrUGDZX6DMZj4mBX2PJ23wXk6nJ LXo1HBBNHNs58EYggeTOtS8

 

  • Anonymous Was a Woman: Emergency Grants for Female Artists Over 40 in Response to the COVID-19 Crisis

 

https://news.artnet.com/art-world/anonymous-woman-emergency-grants-181913 4?fbclid=lwAR25Q VzPnEF98wUZ7bPJEEunj4WWA8sCZ8ugu73NLyCZxliudjx­ AUcT0g

  • The Ohio Department of Commerce’s Division of Liquor Control: All bars and restaurants may return unopened high proof liquor products that have been purchased within the past 30 days to offset financial losses. Contact them at 877-812-0013, or OhioLiguorlnfo@com.ohio.gov. https://com.ohio.gov/ligr/

Internet Access:

  • Comcast: Two months of free service to new customers- https://www.internetessentials.com/

  • AT&T: Several offerings, namely “Access from AT&T Program”  https://about. att. com/pages/COVI D-19. html

  • Spectrum: Free internet access for 60 days to households with K-12 and/or college students­ Call 1-844-488-8395 to enroll in the program.

Installation fees are waived for new student households, other eligibility requirements are applied (ex. cannot have an outstanding balance)

Resources for Spanish Speakers:

  • Catholic Charities SW OH (includes Su Casa Hispanic Center and AccuracyNow Language Services):

 

Interpretation for people whose first language isn’t English, bilingual mental health counseling, emergency assistance for those who are Spanish speaking. Services are being adjusted to accommodate as many people as possible while also working to protect public health.

www.ccswoh.org or (513) 241-7745

  • Daily Schedule of online/learning options (IN SPANISH):

 

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1jlxThUmNly4KGWkQrSMbdiYeU0m0piOwVeJiyw yxxxw/edit?fbclid=lwAR0TYIBgZSUjazydr0rPJPhLO cWIBgiwQHjPu8EP4JSEpV7IfQey WW2N3A

Tips for Home-Schooling & Remote Learning:

  1. Julie Bogart- Home-Schooling Guru: http://blog.bravewriter.com/2020/03/23/podcast-suddenly-at-home-schoolers/?fbc lid=lwAR3ilHVH RmNwD2hCOuWWMz2oUSsnXYY9waemmraAA 71u 1 mjwXv7cR FfuN6A

  • Wide Open School: Free online resource to support families and educators who are transitioning to remote learning as a result of the coronavirus.
  • Cincinnati Public Schools Remote Learning: Remote Learning Access and Information!  https://remotelearning.cps-k12.org/
  • CPS TV: Cincinnati Public Schools recently launched CPS TV. The community access features recorded online lessons presented by CPS teachers, along with other educational programming from zoos, libraries and museums. Info below.
Kentucky Career Center – Unemployment Insurance
Center for Disease Control FAQ
How to Make a Face Mask (CDC)
Northern Kentucky Health Dept. Coronavirus Updates
Hamilton County Public Health Website

 

 

Alumni President’s Address – Joshua Trotter 14′

Alumni President’s Address – Joshua Trotter 14′

The following is a letter that was sent via mail March 15th 2020 from our current Alumni President, Joshua Trotter. This letter informs the SCPA Alumni family and it’s supporters about the progress the association has made in it’s first two years, as well as sharing the direction the alumni are moving in for 2020 and beyond!

Joshua Trotter 14′ – 2020 Alumni President

Contact

NAAcSCPA
PO Box 40215
Cincinnati, OH 45240-0215

About the Association

NAAcSCPA is an IRS-recognized 501(C)3 nonprofit organization, incorporated in the State of Ohio. NAAcSCPA is committed to providing financial and mentoring resources to SCPA and its alumni, maintaining the legacies of diversity of thought and talents, and developing lasting relationships with Alumni and SCPA community partners.

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