SYMMES TOWNSHIP, OHIO – A passion for the importance of the Arts in Schools

SYMMES TOWNSHIP, OHIO - Loveland High School Senior Ashley Freeland said she has always been active in Loveland’s Art programs. She is currently in Art IV and Independent Art Study. Last year she spoke to State Representative Michelle G. Schneider about the importance of Art funding in schools when she was a Student Arts Advocate at the 2007 Ohio Governor's Awards for the Arts. Arts Day is held in conjunction with the Governor's Awards for the Arts in Ohio, and arts advocates from around Ohio go to the capitol to "demonstrate, through a united presence and voice, the need for and value of public funding for the arts in Ohio."

“I have always had a passion for the Arts and believe my work allows me to express myself in a unique and original way,” said Freeland. “This experience allowed me to advocate my passion for the importance of the Arts in Schools.”

Freeland, a Loveland resident, said she is going to attend Xavier University this fall, majoring in International Studies and Global Development. “Although I am not majoring in the Arts, I will continue making artwork. I hope to incorporate Art into any career I obtain, because I believe the Arts have a way of building bridges between people.”

Loveland High School teacher Jennifer Grant said, “Ashley is a fantastic young lady. She is self motivated and very skilled.” Grant added that in her Independent Art class, Freeland is combining her interest in international studies, with the study of multi cultural art forms.