SEOEA 
Several SEOEA members were honored to attend the 2026 OEA Foundation Gala on July 25 at COSI in downtown Columbus. Held in partnership with OEA-Retired, this year’s event celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Ohio Education Association Retired Members organization while recognizing the lasting impact of public education across Ohio.
COSI provided a fitting backdrop for the evening, as its mission to “engage, inspire, and transform lives and communities” reflects the important work educators do every day in their classrooms, schools, and communities.
The gala also highlighted the work of the OEA Foundation, which supports educators and students through Innovation Grants and Diversity Grants. These grants provide opportunities to enhance learning, encourage creativity, and help students succeed by funding meaningful educational experiences throughout Ohio.
The afternoon was a celebration of the dedication of current and retired educators, the partnerships that strengthen public education, and the shared commitment to ensuring every student has access to high-quality learning opportunities.
SEOEA is proud to have members who support the mission of the OEA Foundation and its continued investment in Ohio’s students and educators. Congratulations to OEA-Retired on celebrating 50 years of advocacy, service, and commitment to public education.
Together, we reaffirmed a simple but powerful message: Public Education Matters.