Alen Amini reflects the values of compassionate leadership through years of dedication to advancing fairness, belonging, and respect for all people. Across education, community leadership, and global advocacy, he consistently demonstratesthe courage to stand up for others, especially in moments when doing so is difficult or unpopular.
Alen’s work began in under-resourced schools in the Arkansas Delta, where he served as a teacher and later a school leader, ensuring that students who had long been overlooked were given real opportunities to succeed. In that same environment, he founded one of the first Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN) chapters in Southeast Arkansas, advocating for LGBTQ+ students in a region where such leadership required both personal and professional courage. His commitment to inclusion continued as School Board Chair of Sela Public Charter School, where he helped guide a model intentionally designed to bring together students from diverse racial, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds, fostering understanding and belonging across lines of difference.
Today, as Executive Director of Starfire Council of Greater Cincinnati, Alen champions inclusion for individuals with disabilities, ensuring they are fully integrated into their communities and able to build meaningful, connected lives. His work extends beyond local impact, bringing inclusive models to global communities where individuals with disabilities are often excluded or overlooked.
Alen’s advocacy also reaches the public sphere. Through his writing, he has taken clear and principled stands against antisemitism, xenophobia, and inequality, demonstrating a willingness to speak out as an ally and advocate for those targeted by injustice. Whether in classrooms, boardrooms, or public discourse, he consistently uses his voice and leadership to challenge inequity and expand opportunity.
What defines Alen Amini as an upstander is his consistency. He sees where people are excluded and takes action to change it. Through courage, humility, and compassion, he is building stronger, more inclusive communities and inspiring others to do the same.
Join us in celebrating Alen at our Cohen Family Upstander Gala on June 14th, reserve your spot today!
Cohen Family Upstander Month is generously supported by Duke Energy, Procter & Gamble, Cincinnati Museum Center, and the Mayerson Family Foundation.
