Fundraising Events

Starry Night Sky Illustration
Saturn Illustration

Annual Gala

The Annual Gala serves as the Museum’s cornerstone fundraising event. Guests are welcomed to a cocktail reception and unparalleled silent auction, featuring the world’s most beautiful natural wonders, such as rare fossils and fine gem and mineral formations. Following cocktail hour, guests partake in a three-course seated dinner, with tables scattered throughout the Museum’s stunning exhibit halls. Then, everyone hits the dance floor! Funds raised are critical to the Museum’s operations and to promoting science education to almost 2 million visitors and 500,000 students each year.

2024 Chairs: Michelle and Alan Smith

Critter Crawl: It’s Magic!

 
Critter Crawl is the Museum’s premier family fundraising celebration. During this special Saturday morning, the whole Museum is reserved so attendees can explore every inch of HMNS. This year’s event—“It’s Magic!”—will feature an array of mind-boggling activities, including a Nitrogen Ice Cream Bar and Make Your Own Lava Lamp station. In addition, enjoy special access to Sharks! The Meg, The Monsters & The Myths, and you will be among the first to preview the Matter & Motion Hall, the all-new chemistry and physics wing.
 
Critter Crawl welcomes ALL family members: kids, parents, grandparents, and more. The activities are tailored for children ages two to twelve, but rest assured there is something for everyone! Funds raised support operations and the Museum’s robust youth education programming.
 
2024 Chairs: Julia Morales Clark and Matt Clark, Adrienne and Jared Crane, Krystal and Garrett Thompson

Excellence in Science Luncheon

The Excellence in Science Luncheon honors educators and students who are passionately pursuing STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) education. Two students and teachers from the greater Houston area are recognized at the event with the Wilhelmina C. Robertson Teaching Excellence Award and the Evelyn Frensley Scholarship Award, made possible by The Cockrell Foundation. In addition to celebrating math and science achievements, guests will enjoy a dynamic presentation from a spectacular keynote speaker. Funds raised support the Museum’s innovative youth educational programming such as school tours, outreach programs, teacher workshops, and educator open houses. 
 
2023 Chairs: Carolyn and Jake Sabat
Fundraising Event Information
Jennifer Kaldis
Director of Fundraising Events 
Contact – jkaldis@hmns.org