City of Columbus Mayor Andrew J. Ginther, Bernita A. Reese, M.S., CPRP, director of City of Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, and community leaders will host a ribbon cutting ceremony to mark the official opening of the Fran Ryan Center in honor Ms. Ryan, Wednesday, January 8, 2025.

Under the City of Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, the Fran Ryan Center, a vibrant new hub for creativity, wellness and community connection is at the Olde Towne East neighborhood.

Named in honor of Fran Ryan, a lifelong advocate for the arts and older residents, the center will provide dynamic programming and state-of-the-art amenities for Columbus residents. The grand opening for the building will take place on Wednesday, January 8, and programming will begin on Monday, January 13.

The Fran Ryan Center features creative studios for ceramics, painting, fiber arts, woodworking and more. It is also home to the Golden Hobby Gift Shop, which showcases handmade goods crafted by Columbus-area seniors, as well as wellness-focused spaces, including a fitness room, dining room and an outdoor park.

Many beloved programs previously offered at the Martin Janis Senior Center—closed since the pandemic due to facility damage—will now be hosted at this new center. Residents from Olde Towne East and across Columbus are welcome to explore classes, programs and the center’s facilities.

“Fran Ryan has had a lasting mark on our City through her dedication to the arts and her tireless advocacy for older residents,” said Mayor Andrew J. Ginther.

“The Fran Ryan Center is a fitting tribute to her legacy—a beautiful, inclusive space where residents can come together to create, connect and thrive.”

Following the ribbon cutting, attendees can enjoy an open house where they can tour the new center and see demonstrations in the art studios. Highlights include exploring the ceramics studio, viewing the model railroad, shopping for unique handmade items at the Golden Hobby Gift Shop and experiencing the fitness center—perfect for jumpstarting your New Year’s resolutions.

“This state-of-the-art facility offers something for everyone,” said Bernita A. Reese, M.S., CPRP, director of City of Columbus Recreation and Parks Department.

“We’re proud to open a space where community members can come together to celebrate creativity, wellness and connection. It’s especially significant to welcome back many of the programs from Martin Janis in this beautiful, new home.”

Fran Ryan is a co-founder and acting chairwoman of the Senior Services Roundtable of Columbus and Franklin County. Throughout her career, she has held numerous leadership positions, including serving on Columbus City Council, as a Franklin County Commissioner and as City Clerk.

Appointed by President Carter, Ms. Ryan served as the Midwest Regional Representative to the U.S. Department of Labor. She was the first woman to chair the Franklin County Democratic Party and was inducted into the City of Columbus Hall of Fame in 2017.

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