As philanthropists who proudly support a number of organizations, Michael and Suzette Fisher never lose sight of how their gifts can have the greatest impact.
“We have always believed in the power of collective giving and the power of collective planning,” Michael said.
That’s why, for decades, the Fishers have devoted countless hours and made generous gifts to United Way of Greater Cincinnati (UWGC). On May 14, the organization will present them with The Tocqueville Award.
UWGC leads by bringing into focus “the bigger picture” of community needs, Suzette said. “From that bird’s eye view, it can determine how agencies can collaborate to address problems together. United Way is uniquely positioned to do that.”
“Suzette used the word together,” Michael said. “We really think that is the way to address the needs and opportunities a community has.
“United Way has people from all walks of life both contributing to it and benefiting from it. It’s thinking about the big systemic issues of our community, thinking about how to bring all the resources — human resources, financial resources, government resources, the business community — together to address problems, starting with (input from) the individuals themselves.”
The Fishers are parents of four and have been married almost 40 years. During that span their relationship with United Way grew and their philanthropic efforts took many forms — volunteering, advocating, donating and inspiring others.
Suzette’s association with United Way began when, as a graduate student at the University of Cincinnati, she landed an internship in UWGC’s marketing department. About the same time, Michael was a young professional whose introduction to United Way came by way of his involvement in Cincinnati’s Jewish community. When asked to serve on United Way’s campaign cabinet, he eagerly accepted.
In the years since then, Michael led an auto industry service supplier; served as president and CEO of the Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber of Commerce; and was president and CEO of Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center until retiring in 2021.
Like Michael, Suzette has held leadership roles with numerous community and civic organizations. “Getting involved with any board or agency, you have to be a self-starter and raise your hand a lot and say, ‘I’ll give this a try, it’s really important.’ You learn a lot and you’re able to give back a lot.”
They raised their hands in a significant way in 2003, becoming the first husband and wife team to chair the annual United Way campaign.
Taking on that role meant visits to corporate offices, Suzette said, but no less important were their many visits to observe United Way uplifting the community: a teenage mother learning to be a good mom; families with young children taking advantage of early education opportunities; homeless people getting assistance.
“Understanding first-hand the experiences and needs of individuals and families who seek and benefit from United Way services was really impactful,” Michael said.
Many needs still exist, of course. Said Michael: “United Way and its board have been increasingly focused on how and where they want to put their emphasis — in areas like economic mobility and educational success and housing security. Putting the focus and energy on a handful of things will make a bigger difference.”
The Fishers continue to invest in United Way because they believe in creating opportunities for all people to grow and thrive. “We feel at home everywhere in this community,” Michael said, “and we want everyone to feel at home in this community.”
