Women of Ohio

I wanted to send a warm hello to friends of Women of Ohio. We are cooking up something good here with plans for events in more Ohio cities in 2026, but I will hold that thought for now and reflect on last year. We had some wonderful events but I wanted to flag up a great experience I had talking about Women of Ohio and other projects as well as my own writing in Rio Grande, home of a strong Welsh-American community. This was all thanks to the Greater Columbus Arts Council’s Fund for Artists.

I am thrilled to share that, thanks to support from the Greater Columbus Arts Council (GCAC), I was able to attend the NAASWCH (North American Association for the Study of Welsh Culture and History) Conference at Rio Grande University in summer 2025. This incredible opportunity allowed me to connect with my Welsh heritage and present the Women of Ohio project to a new and engaged audience.

As a dual Welsh-American citizen, attending the conference was deeply meaningful. I had the chance to meet scholars, artists, and members of the Welsh-American community, exchange ideas, and build connections that will strengthen future arts and cultural projects here in Columbus.

This experience was especially impactful for me personally. Following a preventive surgery after a cancer scare, being able to travel, share my work, and reconnect with the world of arts and culture meant the world to me.

I am deeply grateful to the Fund for Artists, the GCAC, and the Columbus City Council for making this experience possible. Your support not only allowed me to grow as an artist but also helped bring the stories of Ohio women to a wider audience. I had a tough year for my health last year but this community event was affirming and inspiring.

You can read my thank-you letter to the Mayor, Franklin County Commissioners, and City Council below: