Upstander Stories: Alethia Finley

Join us for “Little Acts, Big Impact: Mini Upstander Play Sessions” in partnership with the Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati every second Saturday at 10 a.m. at Union Terminal! This special event series features fun, games, and songs led by talented artists from the Children’s Theatre. Each session will focus on highlighting a specific character strength, fostering a positive and engaging environment for children.

While the little ones immerse themselves in creative and educational activities, parents will have the opportunity to explore our museum. As an added bonus, families who attend the session will be offered free admission into Cincinnati Museum Center Children’s Museum for the day.

Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to inspire mini upstanders and create lasting memories with your family. This event series is presented in partnership with Cincinnati Museum Center and the Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati.

Location: Winds of Change Theatre at the Nancy & David Wolf Holocaust & Humanity Center’s museum on the mezzanine level

Time: Every second Saturday, 10 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Cincinnati is a city built by upstanders—a community where courage, compassion, and positive change come to life. Join us for the 2025 Upstander Awards on June 22 at 6 p.m., as we honor the individuals who embody these values and make our city stronger.

This unforgettable gala-style celebration takes place in the iconic rotunda of historic Union Terminal, featuring a three-course meal, live music, dancing, interactive art experiences, and an inspiring awards ceremony that uplifts stories of resilience, action, and impact.

We’re honored to welcome Jesse Eisenberg—Academy Award–nominated actor, writer, and director—as the celebrity host of the evening. Eisenberg’s latest film, A Real Pain, explores grief, memory, and generational trauma through the story of two cousins traveling to Poland to honor their grandmother, a Holocaust survivor. The film premiered at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival, where it won the Waldo Salt Screenwriting Award, and was later released by Searchlight Pictures to widespread acclaim. Eisenberg received a BAFTA Award for Best Original Screenplay and an Academy Award nomination for his work.

His deeply personal storytelling and commitment to exploring historical memory align powerfully with the mission of the Nancy & David Wolf Holocaust & Humanity Center—making his presence at the Upstander Awards both timely and meaningful.

Be part of a night that showcases why Cincinnati is a place where upstanders rise together. Let’s come together to honor their impact and build an even brighter, more compassionate future.

Festive formal attire is recommended. Valet parking is included in the ticket price. Early bird pricing ends May 1.

Kick off your morning with the Upstander 5K on June 29, 2025, at 8:30 a.m., taking runners and walkers on a scenic route through the West End. This year, we’re honored to welcome Kathrine Switzer, the first woman to officially register and run the Boston Marathon, as our honorary Dr. Al Miller Race Marshal. Switzer, a trailblazer in women’s athletics and a global advocate for social change, will lead the race and speak at 10 a.m. in Reakirt Auditorium following the 5K.

After the race, stick around for a vibrant community celebration outside Union Terminal, featuring live music, family activities, breakfast, and a casual pickleball tournament.

The 2025 John and Julie Cohen Upstander Family Day will feature an exciting lineup of community partners and engaging activities for all ages. Highlights include a one-woman performance of Jacqueline and the Beanstalk by The Children’s Theatre, an interactive “craftivity” with the Cincinnati Art Museum, face painting by Emily Jonas, therapy animals from Pet Partners of Greater Cincinnati, and a special appearance by acclaimed illustrator, product designer, toy creator, and author Suzy Ultman.

Additional activities include friendship bracelet making, a guided Upstander Tour, bouquet making at our character strengths flower cart, Sniff, Sniff, Hooray! An Upstander Storytime & Sweet Scents Activity, the Strengths Superheroes photo booth, and a chance to practice podcasting with the Cynthia & Harold Guttman Family Center for Storytelling.

Then, head indoors to continue your day of inspiration! Explore upstander-themed activities and experiences throughout the Children’s Museum, Cincinnati History Museum, the Museum of Natural History and Science, and the Nancy & David Wolf Holocaust & Humanity Center. All 5K participants receive free admission to Union Terminal museums.

This day of action and community is presented in partnership with FC Cincinnati, Fleet Feet, Girls on the Run of Cincinnati, and Cincinnati Museum Center.

Join us for a powerful day of resilience, remembrance, and standing up for what matters.

Register now by clicking the yellow button or visit this page!