At AmeriCU, giving back means investing in the people, places, and organizations that help our communities thrive. Travis Knight, Financial Center Manager at AmeriCU’s Armory Square Financial Center, demonstrates this commitment through his involvement with the Syracuse Poster Project. As a board member and advocate for the organization, Travis helps support its mission of celebrating local poetry, public art, and community pride throughout Central New York.

We recently spoke with Travis about his involvement with the Syracuse Poster Project, what inspired him to get involved, and how others can support the organization’s mission.

What inspired you to get involved with the Syracuse Poster Project?
I met Jim Emmons at my first Downtown Committee meeting after moving to Armory Square in 2025. He introduced himself at the end of the meeting—partly because he liked my energy, and partly because he noticed the Batman logo on my badge holder. We connected right away, and he later emailed me a preview of one of that year’s winning posters. That conversation sparked the idea to see how AmeriCU could support the project. With help from our marketing team, we made a donation, attended the poster unveiling, and had an incredible experience meeting the artists and enjoying their work. I’m thrilled we’re supporting them again this year.

What’s something people might not realize about the work the Syracuse Poster Project does?
The Syracuse Poster Project has been creating public art in our community for over 25 years—longer than any other public art organization in Syracuse. Many early poster artists were Syracuse University illustration students who have since gone on to successful careers in graphic design, children’s books, and animated films. Beyond the downtown kiosks, the Project has also developed permanent poster panel installations along the Onondaga Creekwalk, in Armory Square, at the Erie Canal Museum, and at the Mulroy Civic Center.

Can you share a memorable moment that illustrates the impact of the organization’s work?
At the end of February, Jim invited me to bring a little “Mingle Magic” to the Project’s Mix and Mingle event, where poets and poster artists gathered ahead of the April unveiling. Being able to blend the magic of the Poster Project with my own work as a magician was a really special experience.

What accomplishment are you most proud of during your time with the organization?
One of my proudest moments so far has been joining the board and helping with fundraising efforts. I’m honored to contribute my creativity and skills, and I truly look forward to our monthly meetings.

How can others support the Syracuse Poster Project or its mission?
There are many ways to get involved—purchasing poster prints online, donating through the Project’s donor portal, submitting poetry, suggesting sites for permanent installations, or volunteering.

Travis’s story highlights how local arts organizations can enrich communities and create meaningful connections. His dedication to the Syracuse Poster Project reflects AmeriCU’s commitment to strengthening the places we live and work. Whether through volunteering, donating, or supporting local arts initiatives, each of us can play a role in fostering creativity and community engagement. By supporting organizations like the Syracuse Poster Project, we help ensure public art continues to inspire, connect, and enhance our communities for years to come.