A record-breaking 800 of Miami’s science-savvy socialites gathered in support of the Miami Science Museum’s annual Galaxy Gala & Big Bang events on Saturday, February 18th, to kickoff a weeklong celebration of groundbreaking festivities for the new waterfront museum project. The museum’s signature events, held at the JW Marriott Marquis & Hotel Beaux Arts in Downtown Miami, raised over $500,000 and featured galactic-themed décor, a seated three-course dinner, live music, dancing, performance artists and a laser entertainment experience—all to benefit the new Patricia and Phillip Frost Museum of Science.
Edgar & Nicole Lozano, Nancy & Jonathan Batchelor, Gillian Thomas, and Trish & Dan Bell
“The Gala was spectacular in every aspect – tasty and creative presentation of the food, lively band, and impressive guests who represented most all of the areas of our community,” said Board of Trustees Co-Chair Trish Bell. “It was an “out of this world” way to kick off a groundbreaking week, which includes the commencement of construction of the magnificent Patricia and Phillip Frost Museum of Science. We are extremely pleased to be a part of this milestone in the cultural and educational development of our community and we are immensely proud to be creating a legacy for South Florida that will impact millions of people for many future generations.”
Chaired by Nancy & Jonathan Batchelor and Nicole & Edgar Lozano, this year’s Gala honored important community leaders including: David Lawrence who received the Vanguard Award; Walter Revell who received the Miami Science Museum Award; and The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation who was presented with the Visionary Award. This is also the first time the Big Bang, a high-energy dance party designed to integrate young professionals into the event, merged with the Museum’s Galaxy Gala, which is celebrating its 10th year. The 10th Anniversary Honorary Chair was the Batchelor Foundation and the Philanthropic Chairs were Trish and Dan Bell. The Big Bang was chaired by Izzy Havenick.
Phillip & Patricia Frost, and Trish & Dan Bell
“The 10th Anniversary of the Gala represents a great milestone in the Miami Science Museum’s history as we have also just broken ground on our world class facility,” says Gillian Thomas, Miami Science Museum President & CEO. “This is a time to celebrate the new museum and the benefits it will bring to our children and community for years to come.”
Evening highlights included emcee Natalie Allen from CNN, live entertainment by Soul Survivors & DJ Mark Leventhal, a silent auction, live animal interactions, and an open bar compliments of Bacardi. Major event sponsors were John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, Magic City Casino, Saks 5th Avenue, Southern Wine & Spirits and Azucar Bakery.
Real estate expert and Gala Co-Chair Nancy Batchelor is excited about the impact the new Miami Science Museum will have on the downtown community. “The new science museum is the cornerstone of Miami’s downtown renaissance,” says Batchelor. “It is central to the efforts to strengthen greater Miami’s momentum as an emerging global capital.”
Click below to view a slideshow of some great photos of the night’s events:
For more information about the Galaxy Gala or Miami Science Museum, please visit: http://miamisci.org