Arizona Science Center’s Galaxy Gala Raises $600K for STEM Programs
Galaxy Gala, the fundraiser to support the Arizona Science Center, raised $600,000 for the center’s STEM educational programs. STEM programs focus on science, technology, engineering and math. The Feb. 6 black-tie celebration drew 402 guests.
The event kicked off inside the Arizona Science Center’s Sybil B. Harrington Galleries, where guests were among the first to experience the world premiere exhibition POPnologyTM. The interactive exhibition examines past, present and future technologies inspired by pop culture.
“In addition to the funds raised this evening, our goal was to showcase our amazing new exhibition, POPnology, and to celebrate with community partners the incredible impact our combined efforts are having on science literacy in Arizona and beyond,” says Rebecca Ailes-Fine, chair of Galaxy Gala 2016.
The evening featured a POPnology theme, from the color-changing cocktails to the dinner that included a first course complete with a “user manual.” Along with dessert, guests were challenged to work with their tablemates to build a prototype of their imagined next futuristic innovation out of Legos, which were then displayed in a POPup Gallery at the post-event party.
The first official Science After Dark Party was held after dinner in the newest community space at the Arizona Science Center, CREATETM, a place where science, design and engineering collide.
“Next door in our permanent galleries, visitors are inspired by science. Here at CREATE, visitors can take action using science. We were so excited to host our first Science After Dark Party in CREATE. Ending our annual gala with interactive activities, live music and dancing was so much fun!” says Chevy Humphrey, Arizona Science Center president and CEO.
At the Science After Dark Party, guests were able to explore various activities, including a “Bling Bar,” where they could make their own light-up LED jewelry, and a 3D body scanning station.
The 21-plus event featured live entertainment from Urban Electra, a visit by Game Truck and food from culinary sponsors Pizzeria Bianco, Tarbell’s and more.
PHOTOS BY BEN ARNOLD
Lisa Shover Kackley, Galaxy Gala vice chair; Rebecca Ailes-Fine, chair; Lee Courtney, vice chair
Tracey and Larry Lytle; Jeff and Kara May
Caroline Young, G. Douglas Young and Rosemary Shockman, Elliott Ginsburg and Jayde Richardson, and Cheryl Gudz
Robyn and Michael DeBell; Barbara and Todd Lockwood
Francis and Dionne Najafi, and Jerry Kackley and Lisa Shover Kackley
Katharine and Kent Corbin
Joelle Hadley, Patricia Klahr, Rebecca Ailes-Fine and Kellie Warren
