Press Release:
Rowan County Arts Center Awarded $30,000 South Arts In These Mountains Infrastructure Grant

Morehead, KY — [January 7, 2025] — Rowan County Arts Center is proud to announce that it has been awarded a $30,000 Infrastructure Grant from South Arts, a major investment supporting the RCAC's continued growth and community impact.  

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The grant was secured through the efforts of Michael Hutchinson, staff member at the Rowan County Arts Center; Waylan Coffey, Art & Cultural Director; and Joy Brown, Executive Director of Morehead-Rowan County Tourism. Their combined work in planning, preparing, and submitting the application played a key role in bringing this opportunity to Rowan County. 

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“This support from South Arts will make a meaningful difference in the work we do,” said Coffey. “It strengthens our ability to serve artists, students, and the broader community while continuing to preserve and grow this historic space.” 

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Funds from the Infrastructure Grant will help the Arts Center move forward with critical improvements that enhance outreach, accessibility, and visitor experience. South Arts’ ITM Infrastructure program is designed to support long-term capacity building for arts organizations across the Appalachian region. 

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“We are extremely grateful to the South Arts Board of Directors and staff for recognizing the value and potential of the Rowan County Arts Center,” said Brown. “This grant directly supports our shared mission to grow cultural opportunities locally and across Eastern Kentucky.” 

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The award underscores a continued commitment to expanding arts access in the region and further solidifies the partnership between the RCAC and Morehead-Rowan County Tourism to enrich the cultural life of the community. 

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For more information about South Arts, please visit their website: https://www.southarts.org/