What does it take to build a thriving community, and why does local leadership matter more than ever?

On this episode of Common Good for the Commonwealth, Nancy Grayson sits down with Sharmili Reddy, City Manager of Covington and member of Horizon Community Foundation's Council of Trustees. Together, they explore the role of public service in shaping vibrant communities, the exciting transformation happening across Covington, and why collaboration remains one of Northern Kentucky's greatest strengths.

From economic development and neighborhood revitalization to philanthropy, community partnerships, and the future of regional growth, Sharmili shares insights from her career in public service and her vision for creating places where everyone can thrive.

The conversation also highlights Horizon's innovative approach to community impact, the power of local philanthropy, and why the next generation gives her hope for Northern Kentucky's future.

How do the arts shape the places we call home?

In this episode of Common Good for the Commonwealth, host Nancy Grayson sits down with Rachael Parker to explore how creative placemaking is transforming communities across Northern Kentucky. From public art installations and artist residencies to BLINK, murals, and community-centered design, Rachael shares how the arts can strengthen local identity, spark economic growth, and create more vibrant, connected places for people to live, work, and gather.

Drawing on her journey from Maysville, Kentucky, to leading regional creative placemaking efforts, Rachael discusses the power of investing in artists, expanding arts access for young people, and building partnerships that leave a lasting impact on communities. She also offers a behind-the-scenes look at exciting projects underway in Covington, Newport, and Florence, as well as ArtsWave's vision as it approaches its 100th anniversary.

Whether you're an arts enthusiast, community leader, or simply curious about how creativity can drive positive change, this conversation offers an inspiring look at the role the arts play in building a stronger Commonwealth.

Guest: Rachael Parker, Director of Northern Kentucky Creative Placemaking, ArtsWave
Host: Nancy Grayson, President & CEO, Horizon Community Foundation of Northern Kentucky

On this episode of Common Good for the Commonwealth, host Nancy Grayson sits down with Andy Brunsman, Executive Director of Be Concerned, Northern Kentucky’s largest and longest-operating free food pantry.

Andy shares his remarkable journey from a service-learning student in Cincinnati to becoming one of the youngest nonprofit executive directors in the country at just 25 years old. Together, Nancy and Andy explore the history and mission of Be Concerned, the importance of preserving dignity while serving families facing food insecurity, and how innovative thinking has helped the organization grow from a small pantry into a regional lifeline serving more than 50,000 Kentuckians each year.

They also reflect on the power of collaboration during moments of crisis—from the COVID-19 pandemic to SNAP disruptions—and discuss how communities can step up through time, talent, and treasure to support neighbors in need.

This conversation is a powerful reminder that creating common good starts with showing up, finding a way to “yes,” and believing that service can change lives—for both those receiving help and those giving it.