RACHEL HAGEMEIER

Canton Symphony Orchestra, President & CEO

Moved from Edmond, Oklahoma to Cleveland in 2015, then to Canton in 2019.

Biggest surprise: The number of worldclass artists—both visual and musical— astounds me.

Out-of-town visitor picks: Stark Parks for hiking, First Fridays and the Downtown Canton art galleries, live music at The Auricle, Sangria Stand and George’s!

Day-off fun: Shopping at Main Street Modern (or any vintage/thrift shop), paddle boarding, pickleball, a glass of wine at Gervasi.

On the arts climate: There’s an abundance of arts in Stark County. The arts have the potential to expand and thrive in the coming years if our community continues to support us through their patronage, donations, and telling our stories!

Most adventurous, new experience: Taking on the role of president & CEO of the Canton Symphony Orchestra. I am only 26 years old and have been in the fi eld for about four years. My fi rst job was being manager of education and community engagement for the CSO in 2019. To jump from being a manager to president & CEO came with a lot of challenges, but I have an amazing community and am able to succeed with their support.