Parr, who won in the arts administration category, was among nine winners of the honor — including The J.M. Smucker Co. in Orrville, which was recognized as a large business to support the arts.

The award, which the council began bestowing in 1971, recognizes those "who have been vital to the growth and development of Ohio's cultural resources," according to press materials. The public nominates people and organizations in eight categories.

"The 2018 Governor's Awards winners are true innovators and leaders in their communities," said Donna S. Collins, executive director of the Ohio Arts Council, in a release. "They exemplify Ohio's creative and forward-thinking spirit."

Parr has helmed the iconic Akron Civic since 2007. Prior to that, he was the theater's director of development and planning as it went through its $22.5 million restoration project that helped bring new shine to the Rubber City's arts gem. And after cuts in 2015 at the University of Akron left E.J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall with an uncertain future, Parr stepped in to help with the booking at that venue. He also provides booking assistance to the city's Lock 3 Park.

Smucker has long been a champion of the arts and provides support to the Magical Theatre Company and the Tuesday Musical Society. Plus, the company is a substantial backer of the Akron Art Museum, having donated $1.125 million in October to continue to support the institute's endowment and sponsor the Free Thursdays program, where patrons pay no charge to visit.