Meet ystark! YP: Morgan Brown

Name

Morgan Brown

Occupation/Title/Place of work

Education Director/Props Master, Players Guild Theatre & Full-Time Graduate Student, University of Saint Francis

Age

23

Why are you interested in Stark County’s Young Professionals initiative?

I have such a passion for Stark County, where I was born and raised. There are so many amazing opportunities in Stark and even more wonderful people. To be part of Stark County's Young Professionals initiative means joining a group of likeminded, dedicated, diligent individuals who all share a common goal: bettering ourselves and serving our community.

What would you share to encourage other people to join?

I joined the ystark! Facebook group a few months ago and it has been a constant flow of positivity and encouragement. The Young Professionals community is one in which people are valued and supported, and having a group with whom to connect and share ideas is invaluable to young adults.

Did you grow up in Stark? If so, where? If not, where did you move from and why?

Yes! I grew up in North Canton and attended Plain Local Schools. I currently live in North Canton.

Why do you stay in Stark County, from both a personal and professional point of view?

Stark County is bursting at the seams with opportunities for people of all backgrounds and passions. From the arts to education to a thriving workforce, there is a place for everyone. I knew that if I stayed in Stark County I could find my professional home, right in the place I have called home my entire life.

What do you like MOST about Stark County?

The diversity is the best part of Stark County! At every event, workplace, or educational institution I have attended, I have met tons of people who have taught me about history, trades, cultures, and more. Regardless of what you love to do, you can find it in Stark County. Whether it's kayaking, ice skating, painting, welding, acting, or [insert your passion!], there is a group of individuals who share your interests.

What would you change about Stark County if you could?

The only aspect of Stark County I would change is the weather... I love outdoor activities, especially biking, and in the colder months I yearn for the Stark Parks trails.

What do you see as valuable opportunities for YPs in Stark County when it comes to career opportunities, cultural access, leadership or community involvement opportunities?

I have found early in my career that many businesses are open to mentoring young professionals who take an interest in their line of work. There are many opportunities to make connections that may lead to a career. As for cultural access, there are countless open doors for artists and intellectuals across Stark County. These doors are opened through networking and volunteer work, and after one starts getting involved, the doors continue to open. It's a domino effect.

What would attract more YPs to Stark County?

I would love to see all of the fabulous opportunities for young professionals marketed more. Small businesses, independent firms, and community events alike could be bursting with involvement, as long as the public knows about them. The potential is there, so sharing the details will take it one step further.

What do you do in the evenings or on the weekends for fun in Stark County or NE Ohio?

I love attending community events such as First Friday in Downtown Canton. I am a theatre gal at heart, so you can often find me at performances at the Players Guild Theatre, Carnation City Players, and Avenue Arts Theatre, to name a few. I enjoy checking out local food options like Basil, Twisted Citrus, Game Time, and Eadies Fish House. In the summers, I spend many hours biking the Stark Parks trails, playing tennis at Malone University and Price Park, and paddle boarding on Portage Lakes.

Could you see yourself spending your lifetime in Stark County and if not, what would cause you to leave?

There is nowhere I would rather live than Stark County. Generations of my family have lived, worked, and thrived here and I plan to continue that legacy. The people, opportunities, arts, and culture make me proud to call Stark County home.