As the Miriam Rosenthal Foundation for the Arts concluded its 60th anniversary year, the organization began a new chapter to ensure its mission endures for generations to come. The foundation’s advisory committee recently announced a strategic partnership with The Dayton Foundation, positioning MRF to continue its support for Greater Dayton’s vibrant arts community. Now a fund of The Dayton Foundation, MRF ranks among the Foundation’s larger charitable funds.
“This partnership represents both a celebration of our past and an investment in our future,” said Richard (Dick) McCauley, who has served as MRF’s volunteer leader for nearly four decades. “By joining The Dayton Foundation, we are strengthening our ability to support Dayton’s arts and cultural scene, while honoring Miriam Rosenthal’s extraordinary legacy.”
Established in 1965 by prominent community leaders, including former Dayton Foundation Governing Board members Robert Oelman and David Rike, and funded by hundreds of friends and neighbors, MRF honors the extraordinary life of Miriam Rosenthal. Miriam was one of Dayton’s most influential civic and fundraising leaders.
Thanks to a grant awarded from the Miriam Rosenthal Foundation for the Arts, K12 Gallery & TEJAS is beautifying downtown Dayton with a fabric art installation.
The daughter of Jewish immigrants, Miriam rose from humble beginnings to become a journalist, public relations professional and the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra’s first manager. Miriam was a driving force in shaping Dayton, supporting fundraising efforts for Good Samaritan Hospital, Memorial Hall and the University of Dayton, as well as the establishment of Sinclair Community College and Wright State University. Her leadership benefited longstanding institutions, such as the Dayton Metro Library, YMCA of Greater Dayton and YWCA Dayton. Miriam also championed efforts to bring the National Museum of the United States Air Force to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and served as a trusted advisor to notable political leaders, including the late James M. Cox, former Dayton Daily News publisher and Ohio governor.
Today, her name remains visible on buildings located on the campuses of Sinclair, UD and WSU, as well as on a memorial in Dayton’s Wright-Dunbar neighborhood, celebrating her recognition on the city’s Walk of Fame.
“Miriam left a significant void in the community,” Dick said. “Because of her influence in the arts, education and so many other areas of civic life, local leaders carried on her passion for the arts through this foundation.”
Under the new partnership, MRF will continue to operate with its existing identity, mission, leadership and grantmaking procedures. The Dayton Foundation will provide administrative services, including accounting, auditing, fund administration and legal support. This arrangement will enable the advisory committee to focus on awarding grants and expanding access to rich arts offerings.
“By bringing the Miriam Rosenthal Foundation under The Dayton Foundation umbrella, we’re helping to ensure her legacy remains visible, vibrant and sustainable for future generations,” said Mike Parks, CFRE, president of The Dayton Foundation.
Recent MRF grants are supporting upcoming performances by the Bach Society of Dayton and the Dayton Performing Arts Alliance, as well as summer arts education programs with The Human Race Theatre Company and K12 Gallery & TEJAS. Both programs center on engaging young people in creative expression through visual arts and theatre production.
In celebration of its 60th anniversary, the Miriam Rosenthal Foundation for the Arts awarded a special grant to the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra for its 2025-2026 season-opening concert featuring Keitaro Harada, the orchestra’s new music and artistic director. (From Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra, Josh Ohms photographer)
“Young people need opportunities to explore creativity, learn about collaboration and develop critical thinking skills,” Dick said. “What students gain from exploring the arts extends far beyond developing their artistic ability. They’re learning how to solve problems, communicate ideas and see the world in new ways.”
As MRF enters its seventh decade, the advisory committee encourages donations from individuals who share Miriam’s vision and dedication for the arts.
“By joining The Dayton Foundation, we are strengthening our ability to support Dayton’s arts and cultural scene, while honoring Miriam Rosenthal’s extraordinary legacy.”
– Richard (Dick) McCauley, volunteer leader for the Miriam Rosenthal Foundation
“The Miriam Rosenthal Foundation was created by the citizens of Dayton to be a lasting source of support for the arts,” Dick said. “The founders believed future generations would continue to invest in the fund so that the arts could thrive despite growing challenges and expenses. We hope others who value the arts will join us in continuing that mission.”
Added retired Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra conductor Neal Gittleman, “Having been a longtime beneficiary of support from the Rosenthal Foundation during my three decades on the orchestra’s podium, and now as a member of the foundation’s advisory committee, I have an even deeper understanding of its key role in keeping Dayton’s arts scene busy and vibrant. I’m sure Miriam is smiling down on us for all that goes on arts-wise in our community, and she’s probably saying, ‘Good! But let’s do even more!’ To which I say, ‘Yes, ma’am!’”
To learn more about or contribute to the Miriam Rosenthal Foundation for the Arts, visit miriamrosenthal foundation.org.