Artfully Together!
We are committed to providing enriching educational and performance opportunities and to cultivating a safe and positive environment for creative expression.
We are committed to providing enriching educational and performance opportunities and to cultivating a safe and positive environment for creative expression.
Sadie Piper
President / Executive Director
As a lifelong performer and musician who has homeschooled her two sons for seven years, Sadie saw a need for an alternative to traditional, talent-driven education. She envisioned an inclusive, secular program that would welcome children of all abilities and socio-economic backgrounds, prioritizing growth and exploration in a safe and supportive environment.
Mike Luoma
Secretary
A programmer by trade, Mike is an enthusiastic supporter of the arts, having sat on several non-profit boards. A family man, he has been involved in his children’s love of theater and music for the past ten years and supports his wife’s drive to better the fine arts in their community of Cuyahoga Falls. Mike shares his wife Julie’s enthusiasm for bringing more arts programming to the youth of Summit County.
Jason Balk
Treasurer
As the proud father of a teenage son engaged in visual and performance arts, Jason is deeply committed to supporting the organization's goal of offering fine arts opportunities to a diverse group of kids. This personal connection is complemented by his professional background as an engineer for an Ohio manufacturing company and over a decade of experience serving as treasurer for non-profits.
Rachel Smith
Board Member
Currently a theater teacher in Pittsburgh, PA, she holds a master’s degree and has more than ten years experience in education and sociology. Her teaching philosophy is that the process matters far more than the product. Wanting her students to walk away from the process with increased confidence, empathy, and collaboration skills, her goal is to instill in them valuable life skills that they can acquire through theater.
Sam Sherburne
Board Member
Currently the Artistic Director/Vice President of the Indiana Players Inc based in Indiana, PA. As an actor, director, and theater teacher based out of Western Pennsylvania, Sam received his bachelor’s from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and his Master’s of Fine Arts from Florida Atlantic University. Sam’s professional interests include devised work in theater and arts outreach to underserved communities.
Liz Thompson
Board Member
Inspired by her own youthful experiences (including elaborate basement pop concerts, much to her family's chagrin), Liz is committed to making a difference at Summit Arts Collective. She brings over 20 years of piano experience and a deep understanding of the need for such organizations.
Tiffany Balk
Board Member
Tiffany is an artist, writer, gardener, music lover, and homeschooling parent. She was a small business owner for 20 years, but retired early to place greater focus on her passions. She is a deep believer that art is for everyone, music is connection, and that creative expression enhances quality of life.
Abe Piper
Technical Support - Designer
Abe has always had a passion for design, having earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the Indiana University of Pennsylvania in Design and Adult Education. He is excited to support the organization using his graphic art and design skills.