101 Stories: Ohio Citizens for the Arts

By The Children's Theatre

Celebrate TCT’s 101st season as it comes to a close as we applaud and appreciate those who contributed to the organization’s magic throughout our century-long journey.  During 10 weeks of recognition, we honor individuals who have been instrumental in the success of TCT, and who have not only helped TCT grow in mission, but also thrive, thanks to their passion.  It is these people and their moments in our history that shaped TCT to become what it is today. We encourage you to consider giving a gift in their honor to ensure the sustainability of TCT’s mission for the next 100+ years. 

Angela P. Meleca, Executive Director of Ohio Citizens for the Arts (OCA).

Ohio Citizens for the Arts (OCA) is a statewide advocacy organization that energizes the art and creative community to lobby the Ohio State Legislature, Administration, and Congress. Their mission is to ensure all people have access to and involvement in creativity and the arts.

Members believe creatives are essential and the backbone of innovation, prosperity, and strong communities. They advocate that public funding for the art and creative industry is a high-return investment that benefits all Ohioans. 

OCA’s recent successes include the allocation of $20M CARES funding for the industry.

Angela P. Meleca is the Executive Director of Ohio Citizens for the Arts (OCA). Angela comes to OCA with more than 25 years of experience in journalism, politics, public relations/marketing, and the arts. 

Before joining OCA, Ms. Meleca was the Founder of Angela Meleca Gallery, a contemporary art gallery located in downtown Columbus. The gallery was active in elevating and transforming arts and culture in Central Ohio through connecting individual artists, arts advocates, and arts organizations. 

Before her career in the arts, Ms. Meleca was a political journalist and press secretary for the Ohio Senate Majority Caucus. She has extensive experience in communications, media, and public relations.

The Columbus, Ohio native earned her B.A. from The Ohio State University with a concentration in Political Science and Journalism. Her professional affiliations include serving on the Wexner Center for the Arts Donor Circle Council, Columbus Museum of Development Committee, Columbus College of Art and Design Guest Lecturer and Student Mentor Program, and the Dublin Arts Council Board of Directors.

We recently chatted with Ms. Meleca, and she said:

 “I am a firm believer in the public value of the arts for every person – even if they do not recognize the great impact that the arts have on their individual lives. I am a representative for all of the creative industries in Ohio – through Ohio Citizens for the Arts.”

She continues: “About a year ago, I was able to come and see first-hand the impact of The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati has on their community. The Children’s Theatre is dedicated to contributing to the community even in times of crisis, such as the pandemic. This shows how deeply the organization cares about the community, and how they are willing to provide support and theatre through any way possible.”

“The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati brings out the child within me. The vibrancy of their productions and how that continues to push the envelope with creativity, capturing imagination for both young and old. Every time I visit – in-person or online – The Children’s Theatre makes me smile and leaves me with feelings of inspiration, hope, and positivity.”

Would you honor Ohio Citizens for the Arts with a gift to recognize the impact made on TCT?


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