February 20, 2025

The Upper Arlington Education Foundation (UA+Ed), established in 1985, recently hosted a “Show and Tell” to mark its 40th year, celebrating a legacy of providing meaningful opportunities for each and every student. The event featured students and educators who received grants within the last year. Displays, presentations, and conversations highlighted the impact of these programs and projects. Attendees included parents, district administrators, alumni, business leaders, and community members who partner to support the Upper Arlington Schools’ mission to challenge and support every student, every step of the way. 

UA+Ed awarded 79 grants, 20 scholarships and awards in 2024, totaling $162,189 in funding. Sixteen of these projects were part of the “Show & Tell.” Each school was represented and areas of impact ranged from visual/performing arts and technology to service learning and more. Tremont Ukuleles, led by Tino Benedetti and his talented students performed a set list including, "Happy Birthday to UA+Ed". This heartfelt performance welcomed guests at the beginning of a brief presentation kicked off by Alice Finley, Executive Director of UA+Ed. As 2025 marks the 40th anniversary of the Upper Arlington Education Foundation, Alice reminded the crowd to “get your sparklers ready” to celebrate, noting the significant growth in the support provided by UA+Ed over the last 40 years as well as the increase in overall assets, preparing the organization for a strong future of supporting students.

Honoring Leadership and Contributions

A key part of the evening was dedicated to recognizing the exceptional leadership that has fueled UA+Ed’s success. Alice introduced Matt Petersen, the 2024 Board Chair, and welcomed Anne Houser, 2025 Board Chair, who both shared touching personal stories about their experiences serving as trustees. Their leadership, along with that of the other trustees, was celebrated as central to the organization’s continued growth and impact.

The event also paid tribute to trustees finishing their terms on the board - Matt Petersen, Nic Fortkamp, and Mitva Patel - and introduced first-year trustees:

• Jamie Soteriades Barcelona

• Tina Thiara Daniel

• Jessica Voltolini

• Leah Miller, High School Representative

• Erin Bowden, Elementary Representative

Learn more about UA+Ed's Leadership here.

Additionally, a special message was extended by Dr. Robert (Bob) Hunt, the Superintendent of Upper Arlington Schools, who shared his thoughts on the pivotal role the Education Foundation plays in ensuring that the district remains a leader in educational excellence and innovation.

New Funds and Strategic Growth

UA+Ed’s was proud to share news of its expanding infrastructure, including new staff positions:

• Megan Lewis Potts, 94', Director of Donor Development & Alumni Engagement.

• Jen Rigney, Director of Mission & Operations.

• Danielle Losos, Communications Manager (affectionately known as the “Chief Storyteller”).

  
  

Building for the future, UA+Ed introduced five new designated funds in 2024, which will support various initiatives, including:

• The Class of 2024 Endowment Fund

• The Class of 1994 Endowment Fund

• The Class of 2007 Endowment Fund

• The Stand Project

• The Amity Difference Makers Fund

Learn more about UA+Ed's Funds here.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Upper Arlington Schools

Dr. Hunt closed the evening by emphasizing the critical role that collaboration between the Foundation, the school district, and the broader community plays in preparing students for the future. With the launch of the new strategic plan, Excellence and Innovation 2030, UA+Ed will continue to partner in supporting the district’s vision of uniquely accomplished students, prepared to serve, lead, and succeed.

In her closing remarks, Alice Finley reminded attendees of UA+Ed’s lasting impact, noting that the organization’s total assets are at an all-time high. This ensures UA+Ed’s ability to support the students, educators, and staff of Upper Arlington for generations to come.

A Heartfelt Thank You

The evening concluded with a video, showcasing the direct impact of UA+Ed’s work. As guests enjoyed cupcakes and celebrated the Foundation’s continued success, the event served as a reminder of the incredible progress made over the past 40 years.

The Upper Arlington Education Foundation will continue its mission of providing meaningful opportunities for each and every student in the district, thanks to the generosity of parents, district administrators, alumni, business leaders, and community members. With 40 years of history behind it, UA+Ed looks forward to supporting generations of Golden Bears in perpetuity. 

For more information on how you can get involved or support UA+Ed, visit uaeducationfoundation.com.

About The Upper Arlington Education Foundation

The Upper Arlington Education Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that provides access to meaningful opportunities for students that are beyond the budget of the Upper Arlington School District. Established in 1985, UA+Ed is permanently structured to fund programs and projects today and for generations to come. The Upper Arlington Alumni Association is an important part of the foundation and keeps graduates connected, engaged, and motivated to pay it forward. 

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