In the News

Karen D’Agostino’s work building Music Resource Center–Cincinnati was covered by local and national media for more than a decade — from its earliest days as a school outreach pilot to its growth into an established Cincinnati youth organization.

Recognition

2019 · The Cincinnati Enquirer

Cincinnati Enquirer Women of the Year

Karen was named to The Cincinnati Enquirer’s 2019 Women of the Year class for her leadership at Music Resource Center–Cincinnati.

2012 · Cincinnati Museum Center

Difference Maker Award

Karen was honored as a Cincinnati Museum Center Difference Maker for founding Music Resource Center–Cincinnati.

Featured Stories

2008 · WLWT

“Giving Teens a Voice”

WLWT’s three-part series followed MRC’s earliest outreach efforts and the construction of its first studios: Part 1, Part 2, Part 3.

January 5, 2016 · WCPO 9

“Music Resource Center Is a ‘Sanctuary’ for Teens”

How an idea inspired by the original Music Resource Center in Charlottesville grew into a safe, creative space for Cincinnati teens.

August 24, 2016 · WCPO 9

“Music Resource Center Gives Teens a Voice on Air”

A look at MRC’s youth radio station and Karen’s belief that teenagers needed a place designed specifically for them. Watch the video feature →

January 10, 2012 · Soapbox Cincinnati

“Music Resource Center Buys E. Walnut Hills Building”

MRC purchased its Woodburn Avenue home, a milestone toward a permanent space for Cincinnati teens.

March 20, 2017 · WCPO 9

“Music Resource Center Showcases Teen Talent”

A look inside MRC’s live music showcase, bringing together young musicians, staff, and the Cincinnati community.

Teens at Withrow University High School editing song lyrics, from the 2009 Cincinnati Enquirer front page

June 16, 2009 · The Cincinnati Enquirer

“Kids Laying Beats Stay Off the Streets” / “Teens Become MCs at MRC”

Front-page coverage of MRC’s founding story as it prepared to open its permanent center. Reprinted with permission — read the full article.

2009 · Associated Press / USA Today

“Cincinnati Program Uses Music to Reach Teens”

Associated Press coverage introduced MRC to a national audience as it prepared to open its permanent center.

March 14, 2012 · The Cincinnati Enquirer

“A Happy Note for Music Center”

The Enquirer reported on MRC’s continued growth and expanding programming in its early years.

2015 · Hyde Park Living

“Where Culturally Diverse Teens Go to Express Their Musical Talents”

An inside look at MRC’s studios and the progression from a teen’s first visit to advanced production work.

The Story Continues

March 30, 2021 · Soapbox Cincinnati

“The Music Resource Center Offers a Unique After-School Program”

Soapbox revisited MRC’s beginnings and the years of programming built around Cincinnati teens.

March 24, 2026 · Cincinnati CityBeat

“Music Resource Center Offers Teenagers Life Skills”

CityBeat revisited MRC’s story years after Karen’s departure, and its continued work with Cincinnati teens.

Want the full story?

Read more about Karen’s background and how she works with organizations today.