Why does your business support the Akron Art Museum?
At Towpath Credit Union, our commitment extends beyond financial services. We believe in investing in people, places, and experiences that enrich our community. The Akron Art Museum plays a vital role in celebrating creativity, encouraging dialogue, and bringing people together, which closely aligns with who we are as a member-focused, community driven organization.

Supporting the arts is especially meaningful to us because many of our staff members genuinely enjoy and value artistic expression. They take pride in working for an organization that champions creativity and cultural engagement. By supporting the Museum, we’re not only strengthening Akron’s cultural landscape but also reflecting the passions of our team and our deep connection to the community we proudly serve.

What does supporting the arts, and the Akron Art Museum specifically, mean to your organization?
The Museum represents innovation, education, and accessibility—all values that resonate deeply with our organization. Through our support, we’re helping ensure that the arts remain welcoming and accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds across the Akron area. Supporting the arts is an extension of who we are as a credit union and as a community partner. We believe strong communities are built not only through financial well-being, but also through cultural experiences that inspire creativity, connection, and pride in where we live.

If you could borrow one work from a Museum exhibition to display in your home, what would it be?
This is a tough choice, as the Museum has so many remarkable works on display. One piece that consistently stands out to me is Sisters – Two Trees by Petah Coyne. Coyne’s work often draws on art history and literature, exploring contrasts like beauty and darkness, chaos and stillness, life and loss. Sisters – Two Trees embodies that balance in a way that is both visually striking and emotionally resonant. I’m fascinated by how the piece feels organic and monumental at the same time, inviting viewers to slow down and reflect.

While I’m not entirely sure it would physically fit in my office, I’m drawn to the way the work symbolizes connection, resilience, and growth, ideas that resonate both personally and professionally. It’s the kind of piece that sparks conversation and contemplation.

How do creativity and innovation play a role in your work?
Creativity and innovation are essential to how we serve our members and support our community. At Towpath Credit Union, they guide how we think differently, solve problems, and continuously improve the member experience in meaningful ways. These ideas are embedded in our three strategic pillars: vitality, innovation, and philosophy. Vitality challenges us to stay engaged, relevant, and responsive to the evolving needs of our members and the communities we serve. Innovation encourages us to explore new ideas, embrace change, and find smarter, more efficient ways to deliver financial solutions. Our philosophy keeps us grounded in our mission and values, ensuring that every creative or innovative idea is rooted in people first thinking.

Together, these pillars allow creativity to flourish with purpose. Whether we’re improving services, strengthening community partnerships, or supporting cultural institutions like the Akron Art Museum, innovation helps us move forward while staying true to who we are and why we exist.

What has been most meaningful about your relationship with the Museum so far?
One of the most meaningful aspects of our relationship with the Akron Art Museum has been the people. The Museum team has been fantastic to work with—welcoming, creative, and genuinely focused on building connections. From the moment you walk through the doors, there’s always a friendly face, which makes every interaction feel personal and
engaging.

We’ve also really valued the variety of opportunities the Museum provides to connect and try new things. Whether it’s participating in unique wellness offerings like chair yoga and tai chi or engaging with peers and community leaders at Director’s Circle events, there’s always something fresh and thoughtful happening. Overall, the Museum has created an environment that encourages engagement, creativity, and connection— and we’re grateful to be part of a community that makes collaboration both fun and impactful.