After volunteering for multiple years and working as a contract worker, the Greater Columbus Arts Council (GCAC) has hired Rachel Sipes as its new coordinator for the Columbus Arts Festival and special events.

“Sipes has transitioned to a full-time position that includes working on GCAC events such as the Arts Festival and the annual Big Arts Night,” said GCAC in a press release.

Prior to joining the GCAC team, she worked in the medical industry at OhioHealth from 2020-2024, serving as a liaison in the emergency room, the eICU and the Stroke Network for Ohio.

Sipes acquired her BA in economics and arts management at The Ohio State University in 2024.  During her time at OSU, she helped the Office of Student Life bring back the student event Buck-i-Frenzy after quarantine and assisted in coordinated sponsorships with the event department.

In her academic studies, she’s worked on research of AI in U.S. labor markets, captured the economic effects of the pandemic on the arts industry and co-developed a grassroots community music festival while finishing her final semester.

“My journey with the Arts Festival began as a day-of volunteer in 2022,” said Sipes.

“That fall, as I started my arts management degree, I asked one of my professors, ‘How can I get involved in the arts full-time?’ That question sparked a path fueled by passion and persistence. I said yes to every opportunity—volunteering, contract work, anything that allowed me to learn and contribute. You never know where that kind of dedication will lead—you just might find yourself working full-time on a project you absolutely love.”

“We are so excited to have Rachel join the team,” said Festival Director Alexis Perrone.

“She started as a volunteer at the festival and is now able to put that passion into her work with our artists and our organization year-round.”

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