Loading Events

2026 Cohen Family Upstander Awards Gala

Join us for an evening where character takes root and courage blossoms. The Upstander Awards celebrate individuals whose values, leadership, and moral courage strengthen our community and inspire meaningful change. Like flowers in bloom, their actions remind us that character has the power to grow, uplift, and transform the world around us.

On June 14, gather in the iconic Rotunda of historic Union Terminal for a gala honoring this year’s Upstander Award recipients. Guests will enjoy a seasonal three-course dinner beginning with a kale salad featuring: chopped kale, broccoli, carrots, sunflower seeds, dried cranberries, and clementine vinaigrette, followed by a choice of harissa roasted salmon with cilantro gremolada or garlic-herb chicken breast with chive velouté, both served with farro risotto with tomato confit, grilled peaches, and zucchini. The final course will feature a dessert trio.

A kosher meal option (vegetarian) will also be available: Wild Mushroom Wellington; an individual Wellington filled with roasted mushrooms, lentils, caramelized onions, and fresh herbs, wrapped in golden puff pastry and served with a rich vegetable reduction. Accompanied by a Pear & Greens Salad featuring mixed greens, sliced pears, candied pecans, dried cranberries, cucumber ribbons, and a citrus vinaigrette.

The evening will also feature live music, dancing, special activations, and an inspiring awards ceremony that celebrates those who rise to meet the moment with resilience, compassion, and impact.

Through storytelling and shared celebration, the Upstander Awards reflect the mission of the Nancy and David Wolf Holocaust and Humanity Center and affirm the belief that history matters most when it guides how we act today.

Festive formal attire is encouraged. Wear your florals, purples, and blues to celebrate the evening’s theme. Valet parking is included with each ticket. Early bird tickets are $125 through May 8 and increase to $175 after that date.

Tables of 10 are available for purchase for $5,000. Contact Gala Coordinator Leigh Sullivan at [email protected] for assistance and other questions.

Cohen Family Upstander Month is generously supported by Duke Energy, Procter & Gamble, Cincinnati Museum Center, and the Mayerson Family Foundation. 

Ready to register for this event?

Related Events