Growing With Our Community: Kayla Billings Named Director of Programming & Community Relations
We are proud to share that Kayla Billings has been promoted to the role of Director of Programming & Community Relations at Cuyahoga Valley Art Center.
Kayla has a unique way of connecting with our practicing artists, students, and community members. She is warm, compassionate, and deeply understanding. When she sees something that needs to be done, she doesn’t wait for direction; she quietly steps in and figures out how to make it happen. As an artist herself, Kayla understands the journey many of our students and exhibiting artists are on, both educationally and professionally, and that perspective shows in every interaction she has.
Kayla joined CVAC in 2022 at our front desk and quickly became an essential part of our daily rhythm. Many of our members and students know Kayla as one of the first welcoming smiles they see when they walk through our doors. Over time, she has taken on responsibilities that have had a real and lasting impact on our organization and the people we serve. Kayla reflected that one of the most meaningful parts of her work has been managing the scholarship program, helping ensure that students who might not otherwise have the opportunity to take a class are able to participate and grow as artists. Kayla shared, “Moments like that make me realize that I’m contributing in meaningful ways and helping shape the artist community.”
Her care for our members, students, faculty, and exhibiting artists is evident in everything she does. She has helped strengthen our programming, support our exhibitions and workshops, and create a welcoming environment that truly reflects the heart of CVAC.
As CVAC continues to grow, so does the scope of our programming, workshops, exhibitions, and community partnerships. Creating the role of Director of Programming & Community Relations reflects our commitment to thoughtfully supporting that growth and ensuring our artists, students, and members continue to receive the care and attention that define the CVAC experience.
Executive Director Danielle Dieterich shared, “I recognized early on how important Kayla was to the rhythm and soul of our organization. Watching her grow into this new role feels like a natural progression of her determination, care, and drive to make CVAC the very best resource it can be for our creative community.”
Kayla is equally excited for what lies ahead. “I’ve put my heart into CVAC, and I’m incredibly proud to be serving the artist community,” she said. “This new role gives me the opportunity to continue supporting artists, fostering creativity, and helping the community thrive in ways that feel meaningful and lasting.”
We are grateful for Kayla’s dedication, leadership, and kindness, and we are excited to see her continue to grow with us in this new role.
02/19/2026