Finding (or becoming) tomorrow’s arts leaders

“Art has always been an important part of my life,” says Hillary Mitchell of Truepoint Wealth Counsel. “We are a city that’s so rich with art, and it makes working a corporate job here something that’s really rich with beauty and variety.” Mitchell was part of the 2025 cohort of ArtsWave’s Boardway Bound program. Today, she serves on the board of the chamber music organization, Summermusik, turning her experience in marketing and passion for the arts into real impact while developing unique leadership experience.

Have you ever wondered how you could take an active role in shaping the future of arts and culture in the Cincinnati region? Maybe your response would be, “But I don’t know where I’d even begin!” Boardway Bound is ArtsWave’s answer to that.

Creative leadership development

Boardway Bound trains, connects and places the Cincinnati region’s next generation of arts board leaders with local organizations. Since 2004, the program has trained and placed over 500 individuals on local arts boards, helping strengthen arts organizations, expand community representation and build a new generation of leadership. The unique program prepares participants for board service while connecting them directly with arts organizations seeking engaged and skilled volunteers.

Designed for professionals who want to make a meaningful impact, Boardway Bound provides practical training in nonprofit governance, fundraising, marketing, finance and leadership while offering direct access to arts executives, experienced board members and peers from across the region. The program includes seven in-person sessions that explore real-world challenges facing arts organizations through interactive discussions, case studies and networking opportunities sponsored by Thompson Hine LLP.

The final session in the series is the signature “Speed Dating” finale, where participants and arts organizations interview one another. ArtsWave facilitates matches based on mutual interest and fit, kickstarting relationships that often lead to formal board service and long-term community engagement. The program’s impact extends beyond board placement, helping participants build skills and confidence they can apply throughout their careers.

How to join

Professionals from all backgrounds and career stages are encouraged to apply. Some participants bring prior board experience and are seeking additional leadership development, while others are looking for a pathway into nonprofit governance or deeper connections within the Cincinnati region.

Applications for the 2026 program are due June 30, and the sessions run from Oct. 22 through Dec. 10.

For more information, questions or to apply, visit artswave.org/boardwaybound.