Star 94.7's Unsung Hero for July

Star’s Unsung Hero this month is: Becky Keck. A Mahoning Valley native Becky has been an advocate for children’s quality arts education for over 25 years. As one of SMARTS (Students Motivated by the Arts) founders, she has nurtured it from inception in 1997 at YSU and successfully transitioned it to the community in January 2014 - the only community arts school in our region. This year, SMARTS was able to provide free classes in visual arts, music, dance, theatre and creative writing to over twelve hundred PK thru 12 students. Becky has received many awards and distinctions including the Distinguished Service Award at YSU and the first Rotary’s Charles Owsley Award. Under Ms. Keck’s leadership, SMARTS received the Governor’s Award in Arts Education. She participates on many important boards in the Valley – including the Mahoning Valley Historical Society and is Emeritus on The Mahoning County Salvation Army Advisory Board. Ms. Keck knows that learning in the arts is transformational for students – research shows arts education affects students learning. Becky Keck has engaged the community so SMARTS can continue to provide classes in our community to those who need it the most. She believes that “you are only as good as the people that you surround yourself with,” and gives all the credit to those who have helped her lead the way. Help us to recognize and support true role models who have a positive influence our communities. Nominate your Unsung Hero at 947-Star.com.

Becky was nominated by Tavia Day