Portland, OR. The annual Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) Gala garnered significant support for science education initiatives across the Pacific Northwest. With more than 350 attendees, the gala on May 6th, hosted within OMSI’s historic Turbine Hall, achieved a remarkable milestone by raising over $1 million through various avenues, including sponsorships, ticket sales, paddle raises, and an auction. Above, Presenting Sponsor, Jordan Schnitzer, and Renata Baranow posed for a photo at the Gala’s cocktail hour. The theme of this year’s gala, aptly titled ‘Kaleidoscope,’ embraced the vibrant colors and playful spirit of OMSI’s recently revitalized brand.
Portland Garment Factory created a photo lounge backdrop in the theme of Kaleidoscope for guests to enjoy at the May 6th event Here, Presenting Sponsors Christine and David Vernier, and Kimberly Cooper and Jon Jaqua, get their photos taken by KLiK Concepts.
Joe Bingold, OMSI’s incoming Board Chair, kicks off the Gala program with an inspiring story.
Guests generously express their commitments to science education through the Gala’s paddle raise. Included at the table in the foreground are Mike and Karie Richardson and their guests, Mike Erickson, David Lucas, Jeff Heatherington, Ruslan Kamalov, Jimmie Herrod, Michael and Marietta Harrison, Cheri Cooley-Hick, and Ken Hick.
OMSI President and CEO Erin Graham
Erin Graham, President and CEO of OMSI, expressed, “For OMSI, this year represents a period of exciting growth, rejuvenation, and the sowing of seeds for the future. OMSI plays a unique role in our community by uniting individuals in envisioning and cultivating a greener, more equitable future. The funds generated from the gala will further OMSI’s mission to ignite a passion for discovery in people of all ages.”
Founded in 1944 by a dedicated group of volunteers, OMSI has been a pillar of science education for over 75 years, offering innovative and high-quality learning experiences. As a privately funded nonprofit, OMSI heavily relies on the support of its members and donors to make a lasting impact. The gala underscores the belief that everyone can become a successful science learner, and the funds raised during the event will be channeled into enhancing OMSI’s diverse range of programs and making them more accessible to children and adults from various communities across the region.
The gala’s Presenting Sponsors included Jordan Schnitzer/The Harold & Arlene Schnitzer CARE Foundation, Vernier Science Education, and the Jon V. Jaqua and Kimberly B. Cooper Fund of the Oregon Community Foundation. Attendees were treated to delectable cuisine and cocktails provided by Devil’s Food Catering, enjoyed a performance by Jimmie Herrod, a local singer-songwriter and finalist from America’s Got Talent, and were moved by a heartwarming story highlighting OMSI’s impact through inclusive and accessible bilingual Play Labs for young children and their families. The event also featured eleven live auction packages, ranging from local experiences to international travel.
Love Centerwall, Vice President of Development at OMSI, shared, “The OMSI Gala embodies a celebration of science, community, and curiosity, and this year our supporters truly stepped up, contributing over $1 million! The enthusiasm for our mission and our vision for the future was palpable—tonight, we witnessed an extraordinary commitment to OMSI and our mission to deepen and expand our programs throughout the region.”
About OMSI: The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) inspires curiosity through engaging science learning experiences, fosters experimentation and the exchange of ideas, and stimulates informed action.
OMSI is an independent non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that relies on admissions, memberships, and donations to sustain its educational mission, programs, and exhibits. You too can join OMSI in its ongoing mission to promote science education across Oregon and the broader Pacific Northwest. Visit [www.omsi.edu/donate](www.omsi.edu/donate) or contact [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]) for more information.
