March 03, 2026
Meet this year’s honorees, whose talent and commitment make the Short North Arts District shine.
It’s our tradition to recognize a group of honorees across various categories at the annual Short North Gala. This year, we’re excited to celebrate several familiar faces and critical organizations who have brought unmistakable energy to our community. Toast to the Short North’s boundless talent with us as we recognize them at the upcoming event!
meet our honorees
Caroline Stinziano
unsung hero
Caroline Stinziano has been a devoted community volunteer and leader through her service with the Short North Civic Association. In addition to growing events like the Short North Tour of Homes into a high-profile signature community-wide event of unity for neighbors and fans of design, Caroline has been at the forefront of the civic association’s community advocacy on issues that improve and impact quality of life for the over 17,000 residents who call the Short North their home. Caroline’s devotion to community is only matched by her steadfast and humble spirit — for which everyone experiences in her every effort.
Honorees in this category are selected for the contributions they have made over the years to the artistry, diversity, community and spirit of the Short North Arts District.
Travis Samson of SAMSON Men’s Emporium
business beacon
For many, a lifetime in the Short North is a way of life. Travis Samson has spent his professional life and career connected to the Short North, first as resident, then as a manager of Union Cafe, next as a real estate developer, and for the last decade as proprietor of the nationally lauded SAMSON Men’s Emporium. Filling a needed gap in the fashion industry in the Short North, SAMSON has ascended to be ranked as the number one fashion/apparel store in Columbus. When not being featured in national Google Small Business ad campaigns and testifying on the needs of small businesses before Congress, Travis and his team at SAMSON host packed events and create community while making space for the community to dress its best.
Honorees in this category have served as catalysts to bring a broad range of visitors to the District, and have inspired others to invest in and nurture the Short North Arts District.
Deborah Quinci of Quinci Emporium
business beacon
Deborah Quinci has been creating community her whole life through food. The Sicilian native has spent a lifetime in the Short North and has been a fixture in our community long before owning brick and mortar shop Quinci Emporium where she does what she does best — teach. As the founding Chef for local non-profit organization Freedom a la Carte, Deborah taught survivors of human trafficking life changing skills through her family’s recipes, solidifying her identity as a culinary mentor to many. And for the last ten years, she and business partner Connie Klema, have taught the masses how to slow down and enjoy the company of one another using those same recipes. With cooking classes that sell out in an instant, Deborah and her store exude how to condividere, her favorite Italian word meaning to live, gather, and share.
Honorees in this category have served as catalysts to bring a broad range of visitors to the District, and have inspired others to invest in and nurture the Short North Arts District.
Columbus Museum of Art at the Pizzuti
business beacon
The reemergence of the historic United Commercial Travelers building as the Columbus Museum of Art at the Pizzuti has become one of the most impactful infusions of culture in the Short North Arts District in recent years. Stemming from the seminal gift of the historic building to the Columbus Museum of Art by Ron and Ann Pizzuti and family, the building’s reopening and new programming has created a stunning new experience merging contemporary art with international culture alongside diverse experiences of discovery for all ages.
Honorees in this category have served as catalysts to bring a broad range of visitors to the District, and have inspired others to invest in and nurture the Short North Arts District.
Community Shelter Board
community partner
The Community Shelter Board leads a coordinated, community effort to make sure everyone has a place to call home. Their mission has never been more important in Central Ohio and their commitment to innovation leaves an impact that is felt daily by those experiencing need on High Street in the Short North and surrounding spaces. Their team members work with a tireless and fierce resolve to help communities and empower the support necessary to end homelessness, period full stop.
Honorees in this category have deep collaborations with the Short North Arts District resulting in significant advancement of the community’s quality of life.
The Columbus Recreation and Parks Department
community partner
The Columbus Recreation and Parks Department operates the incredible premier parks that make public spaces in the Short North and surrounding neighborhoods some of the most treasured venues for celebration and relaxation in all of Columbus. From permitting the dozens upon dozens of festivals and community special events, to their stewardship of public art, there is arguably no other city department that uplifts the creativity of this community more. Their work is essential to the overall well-being of residents and unmatched for how it is experienced by the over 12 million annual visitors to the Short North.
Honorees in this category have deep collaborations with the Short North Arts District resulting in significant advancement of the community’s quality of life.
get dressed for the gala
The In Pursuit concert series is bringing talented local performers to make this year’s Gala an evening to remember, so you’ll want to show up in style!
With the purchase of your Gala Early Bird ticket you’ll be eligible to receive $100 off any Pursuit suit or blazer! This offer is good for regular price items and expires 3/20/25, cannot be combined with other offers.
thank you to our sponsors
