MOUNT VERNON — The arts community recognized 55 years of dedication to theater and community when it honored John Nixon at Mount Vernon Arts Partners 2025 Preview on Saturday.
Arts personalities and co-emcees Megan Evans and Ian Ernsberger presented Nixon with what will become the annual John Nixon Award.
“We cannot possibly talk about the Knox Memorial without talking about someone who quite literally set the stage for the arts and whose name pretty much goes hand in hand with the Knox Memorial,” Ernsberger said.
“That’s more than half a century of making sure that microphones don’t squeak, batons don’t fall, the lights turn on, and most importantly, that the show always goes on.”
“His extensive knowledge of the Memorial Theater’s technical operations, from lighting to sound, has ensured that the show always goes on, embodying the spirit of dedication and professionalism.”
Knox County Commissioners
Nixon’s expertise in technical theater supported countless productions by the Mount Vernon Players, Distinguished Young Woman program, MTV Arts, and countless choral, concert, and dance programs.
“Now don’t let his backstage expertise fool you,” Ernsberger said. “He has on occasion bravely stepped into the spotlight, fiddling his way through Fiddler on the Roof and sweeping up Congress as Andrew McNair in 1776.”
Ernsberger noted Nixon has been a part of the Knox Memorial through 11 presidents, seven decades, and three Cincinnati Reds World Series wins.
“And let’s be honest. Those championships are probably what he’s most excited about on that list,” Ernsberger said. “But his real legacy is in the lights, the sound, and the countless performances that have come to life under his watchful eye.”
Beyond the stage
However, Nixon’s talents and service extend beyond the stage. He is actively involved in Kiwanis, the Lions Club, and the Knox County Republican Central Committee.
He also volunteers with Food for the Hungry and the Mount Vernon Music and Arts Festival.
“John, your work and dedication over the years have lifted voices, brightened stages, and created memories for generations,” Ernsberger said. “Tonight we thank you not just for what you’ve done, but for who you are. Congratulations on this well-deserved honor.”
The Knox County commissioners passed a resolution on Tuesday honoring Nixon for his service and dedication.
“Ian said a lot of things that’s in the proclamation, so I’m not going to repeat that except for one thing that I’m able to give you that he can’t: the Knox County commissioners minted coin for Knox County,” Commissioner Bill Pursel told Nixon.
“It’s Knox County’s cryptocurrency. It doesn’t have any monetary value, but it is prestigious. We give these to the spelling bee champions, so John, you’re right up there with the spelling bee champions,” Pursel said, drawing laughter from Nixon and the crowd.
The Arts Partners were not sure they could pull off the surprise since Nixon had access to the script, but they did.
“I did not know anything about this, so I do appreciate it,” Nixon said. “The first time I walked in this building, I fell in love with it, and it’s a love affair that has not ended.
“[My wife] Betsy and this building are probably two of the greatest things that have happened to me in my life. I truly appreciate the recognition.”
‘Appreciate the gem’
‘Nixon noted the building’s heritage as a memorial to those who served and those who served and lost their lives. The 100th anniversary of laying the cornerstone dedicating the building was recognized in 2024.
“Just appreciate the gem you have in this and the other venues in towns such as the Woodward, which predates this, and the park,” Nixon told the audience.
“Hats off to this community and Knox County for all they put into the lively arts. For a town this size, it’s remarkable what happens here. Don’t lose sight of that and cherish it.”
Nixon also acknowledged Ariel Corp., noting the town would be “much, much different” if not for the company’s dedication to philanthropy.
“They put so much into this community that’s made it so much better, so I appreciate that as well,” he said.
The Arts Partners will place a plaque in Nixon’s honor in the building lobby and also name a seat in recognition of his dedication.
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