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UA+Ed’s Show & Tell 2026 • Celebrating the Ripple Effect of Generosity
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
On Thursday, February 26th, UA+Ed proudly hosted its Show & Tell event at Upper Arlington High School, welcoming families, alumni, district staff, donors, and community members to experience our mission: to provide meaningful opportunities for students and staff across UA Schools.
Show & Tell is more than an event, it is a celebration of what is possible when a community comes together to invest in our students and educators. This year’s Show & Tell theme, Celebrating the Ripple Effect of Generosity, emphasizes the importance of each donation, large or small, and the growing impact of UA+Ed throughout the district.
Alice Finley, Executive Director shared, “The purpose of Show & Tell is to increase awareness of UA+Ed and to share our gratitude with those who bring our mission to life. The foundation truly benefits each and every student in the district. I hope our donors know how much they are appreciated.”
UA+Ed proudly provided over 100 grants, scholarships, and awards in 2025. Fourteen of these were showcased at this expo-style event. Every school was represented and Impact areas of grant-funded projects included science, arts, service learning, well-being, and more. Guests were able to interact with students and educators and learn about each project.
One of the highlights of the evening was an energetic Djembe drum performance by Barrington students. The drums are a great example of a UA+Ed grant. They engage students and enhance learning above and beyond what is possible within the budget of the school district.
UA+Ed introduced several focused initiatives where, with your help, future funds will be directed:
Amplify Student Voice ProgramThis initiative is at the heart of the Excellence & Innovation 2030 Strategic Plan for the UA Schools. A group of over 30 students grades 7-12 are leading conversations, sharing ideas, and actively shaping their educational experience. By fostering leadership, communication, and civic engagement skills, the program ensures students are not just participants in their education, but partners in it.
Anatomage TableThe Anatomage Table is a cutting-edge, life-sized digital anatomy platform that allows students to explore the human body in 3D detail. This hands-on technology supports science and health curriculum, providing immersive learning experiences that prepare students for future careers in medicine, research, and STEM fields.
The Hope GardenThe Hope Garden, to be located at Upper Arlington High School, will be a peaceful and welcoming area for students, families, staff, and community members to pause in times of heartache, seek hope in the midst of fear, and find joy in times of remembrance. The Hope Garden is inspired by the life of Sam Short, who passed away in April 2024. Sam’s courageous life and enduring optimism has led his family to create a place that honors not only his memory but all Upper Arlington students who pass away too soon.
INCubator EDU
UA Schools is launching INCubator EDU, an exciting entrepreneurship course, this fall. In the first year, students engage with community experts to learn about the ideation process and industry based business skills. At the end of the first year, students are ready to pitch their business plan to a group of community members and judges. If selected, they continue into ACCELerator ED in year two, launching their business with support and guidance from mentors and seed funding from UA+Ed.
“There is something incredibly powerful when you experience the impact and variety of these grants up close. The energy in the room reflects what’s possible when a community invests in its students and educators.” Jennifer Duffy, Board Chair, said, “we are excited for what's possible as we move forward this year and into the future. We hope you'll join us!"
Please enjoy a brief video recap of Show & Tell HERE.
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.