Kaitlyn GraySmith earns 2026 Canton Ad Federation scholarship for film students
Dan Argenas (left), a Canton Ad Federation (CAF) selection committee member, and Mercedes Brown (right), Innis Maggiore PR & Content Marketing Manager, congratulate Kaitlyn GraySmith (center) on the scholarship for film students.
CANTON, Ohio (June XX, 2026) — Innis Maggiore, the nation’s leading positioning ad agency, today announced Kaitlyn GraySmith has been named the 2026 recipient of the Canton Ad Federation (CAF) scholarship for film students.
GraySmith is a rising junior at Cleveland State University where she studies film and media arts. Her interest in screenwriting and film production began during her childhood and was solidified after completing a comprehensive video production career program at GlenOak High School. In her spare time, she dedicates herself to playing the violin and has participated in event planning through the Cleveland State University Campus Activities Board (CAB).
“Cleveland is a hub for screen production, which made Cleveland State University a perfect fit,” said GraySmith. “From building a foundation in screenwriting to collaborating alongside other creative minds as we work together to bring a story to life, my education allows me to fully immerse myself in the film process.”
GraySmith expressed her gratitude for the scholarship for film students, noting it not only allows her to continue her education, but her passion for storytelling on the silver screen.
The CAF scholarship was created in honor of Innis Maggiore Chairman Dick Maggiore for his efforts pioneering scholarships and other programming that supports young adults pursuing creative careers. Maggiore chairs the selection committee, which includes Dan Argenas, principal consultant at DA Marcom, Inc., Jolene Colant, marketing consultant at Inovautus Consulting, and Julie Mertes.
The Stark Community Foundation (SCF) manages and administers endowments and other charitable giving, including the CAF scholarship for film students, on behalf of individuals, families, businesses, and nonprofits to make a positive impact in areas that align with their interests, visions, and passions.
As an industry leader for more than 50 years, Innis Maggiore maintains a deep dedication to cultivating young professionals interested in marketing, advertising, and other creative pursuits. The agency lives out its commitment through a variety of initiatives such as endowments like the CAF scholarship for film students, seasonal internships, and career immersion experiences.
“The CAF scholarship invites students to dive deeper into their studies and interests while mitigating financial burdens,” said Mark Vandegrift, president and CEO of Innis Maggiore. “Innis Maggiore is eager to continue supporting programming and other resources as a means of encouraging local young adults to grow and flourish in our communities.”
About Stark Community Foundation
Stark Community Foundation (SCF) is the community’s trusted partner for individuals, families, businesses, and nonprofits to achieve their charitable goals. Ranked in the top 10 percent of community foundations in the United States, SCF is committed to serving donor needs and strategically addressing local issues. Since it was established in 1963, the foundation and its family of donors steward more than 1,000 charitable funds and manage more than $450 million in assets. Learn how you can simplify your giving and amplify your impact through the Center for Partners in Philanthropy at www.starkcf.org.
About Innis Maggiore
Innis Maggiore Group is recognized as America’s leading positioning ad agency, building strong brand positions for companies around the world. The full-service integrated agency had 2025 capitalized billings of about $24 million. Some of its key clients include Advanced Power, Aultman Health System, AultCare Health Plans, Babcock & Wilcox, Baird Brothers Fine Hardwoods, BellStores, ForeverLawn, Goodwill Industries of Eastern North Carolina (GIENC®), GOJO Industries (PURELL), Golf Crypt, JDM Structures, KFC/Kendall House, Lewis Services, MID’S True Sicilian Pasta Sauce, Midwest Industrial Supply, Mueller Electric, ReliaRide Medical Transportation, Robertson Heating Supply Company, SmithFoods/Prairie Farms, Stark Area Regional Transit Authority (SARTA), Tremont Coffee Co., and WellLink Health Alliance.