Help Ky Graduate: Fund Summer Classes at OSU

What's up y'all! My name is Ky Smiley, and I am currently pursuing my Bachelor's in Fine Arts at The Ohio State University. Thankfully, and finally, I am nearing the end of this portion of my long-term academic journey. As I approach graduation this fall, I find myself in a difficult financial spot when it comes to completing my degree. Over the past year, I’ve been fortunate to receive scholarships to support my tuition, but I am still funding a significant portion of my education out of pocket. During my time as a student I have worked as a resident advisor for 2.5 years, worked at Urban Arts Space as a gallery and photo inern for the past two years. Right now, I am also interning at Maroon Arts Group (MAG), a nonprofit organization that fosters creativity and community through the arts and programming to lead a summer photography mentorship.

Continuing my studies beyond the fall semester isn't financially feasible, so I have taken on summer classes, which unfortunately aren’t fully covered by financial aid or the scholarships I’ve earned in previous semesters. The opportunity to finish my degree at OSU means so much to me because I have transformed, growing both personally and professionally, expanding my knowledge and love for art and Black studies. I want to go out into the world knowing that I closed this chapter fully.

While working toward my BFA in Photography and my minor in African and African American Studies, I’ve exhibited my work internationally in places like Paris, Japan, Malaysia, the Netherlands, and Germany, as well as in national juried exhibitions such as Art of Soul in Wilberforce, OH, and numerous shows organized by tOSU students and faculty. Some of my proudest moments include receiving the Pride Photo 2023 award in the Netherlands and a Gold award in the College Photographer of the Year competition.

I know I am asking specifically for financial support, which I've always hoped to avoid, but I'd be negligent to not note that I’ve never been without the support of my community and family. Their encouragement in my learning and artistic practice has been invaluable, and I remain deeply grateful for their presence in my life. Now, as I approach the final stretch, I’m reaching out for your help so I can wrap up this chapter and continue my journey as an artist, art administrator, and community advocate.

Any generosity is appreciated and is monumental in ensuring I can take these final courses I need to graduate and step confidently into the next phase of my career.

-Ky :)