The 2024 Field Museum Gala Raised $1.92 Million of Critical Funding for the Field Museum’s Research, Conservation, Exhibitions, and Collections Work
CHICAGO–On Saturday, October 19, 2024, the Field Museum held its annual Gala, welcoming approximately 400 guests for an unforgettable evening celebrating the museum’s mission to inspire discovery, promote conservation, and foster an enduring legacy for future generations. With the theme of Enduring Legacy, Evolving Future, the event successfully raised $1,917,664 to support the museum’s critical research, conservation, collections, and education initiatives.
This year’s Gala was chaired by Amanda Rutledge, a member of the Field Museum Women’s Board, and was hosted by the Field Museum Women’s Board and Board of Trustees.
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the prestigious Marshall Field V Award for Distinguished Leadership to the Searle Family, recognizing their exceptional support and long-standing commitment to the museum. Ethan Meers accepted the award on behalf of the family.
Additionally, the Corporate Philanthropy Award was presented to Abbott Laboratories in recognition of the company’s extraordinary leadership and dedication to the museum. Robert Ford, Chairman and CEO of Abbott, accepted the award and highlighted the company’s commitment to supporting scientific research and environmental stewardship at the Field Museum.
The cocktail reception took place in the Museum’s Genius Hall of Dinosaurs in the Evolving Planet exhibition, offering guests a one-of-a-kind immersive experience among dinosaur fossils millions of years old as well as interactive moments with Field Museum scientists. This was followed by dinner, dessert, and dancing in the Museum’s Stanley Field Hall. The Gala spotlighted the Field Museum’s ongoing work to preserve the world’s natural and cultural treasures.
In addition, on the same evening, the Field Associates, the Museum’s young professionals’ board, hosted the Young Professionals’ Soiree at the Gala. The young professionals’ guests enjoyed a reception with interactive science opportunities and access to museum exhibitions after-hours, followed by dessert and dancing alongside the Gala attendees. The Field Associates also hosted a Silent Auction offering once-in-a-lifetime Field experiences and other exclusive packages, with all proceeds benefiting the Field Museum.
“This year's Field Museum Gala celebrated the enduring legacy of those who have shaped the Museum's past and recognized the evolving future of science and conservation," said Julian Siggers, PhD, Field Museum President & CEO. “We are deeply grateful to Amanda Rutledge, the Women’s Board, the Board of Trustees, the Searle Family, Abbott, and all of our supporters for their steadfast dedication to our mission. The funds raised will directly contribute to the Museum’s work in advancing research, education, and environmental conservation for the benefit of future generations.”
The Gala’s fundraising efforts will support a variety of initiatives at the Field Museum, including its groundbreaking research programs, efforts to conserve biodiversity, and the museum’s educational programs designed to engage and inspire learners of all ages.
Supporting the 2024 Field Museum Gala:
To make a gift towards the Field Museum’s mission and the 2024 Gala, please visit
https://www.fieldmuseum.org/our-events/field-museum-gala or contact Courtney Galassini at cgalassini@pjhchicago.com. For information on supporting the Young Professionals’ Soiree at the Gala, please visit https://www.fieldmuseum.org/our-events/soiree-at-the-gala.
About the Field Museum
The Field Museum is a forward-thinking scientific leader with a mission to connect all of us to the natural world and the human story. From exhibitions that inspire journeys of discovery in visitors young and old, to the groundbreaking research and conservation efforts driven by our 40 million artifacts and specimens, we’re on a mission to spark public engagement with science and uncover solutions for a brighter world.
