National Children’s Museum Announces 50th Anniversary Dreamers Gala

December 7th, 2024, Event will Honor Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton and Former President and CEO Crystal R. Bowyer

WASHINGTON – National Children’s Museum, a nationally recognized cultural and educational institution dedicated to play-based science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM) learning, announces its largest fundraising event of the year: the 50th Anniversary Dreamers Gala. The 2024 event celebrates both the impact of the Museum today, and the legacy of the institution in the greater Washington, D.C., community over the last five decades.

Taking place on Saturday, December 7th, 2024, the event will bring together individuals and corporate supporters, public officials, and prominent figures in Washington’s business and cultural communities in support of the Museum’s mission of inspiring children to care about and change the world.

The evening will begin with a playful but elegant seated dinner, held in honor of two of the Museum’s greatest champions: Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton and Crystal R. Bowyer, former President and CEO of National Children’s Museum. Congresswoman Norton has been a strong advocate for the Museum over the last 30 years. Her unwavering commitment has been integral to the institution’s success, leading the charge for congressional designation and promoting ongoing efforts to ensure the Museum’s long-term viability in its downtown home. Crystal R. Bowyer, former President and CEO of National Children’s Museum (June 2017 - March 2024), guided the institution to its historic reopening in Federal Triangle in February 2020. With a career dedicated to high-quality learning experiences for children, she shaped the Museum into what it is today: a leading force in STEAM education and play-based learning.

Following the dinner, guests will travel across the Woodrow Wilson Plaza to the Museum for a celebratory after-party, featuring signature cocktails, fun desserts, dancing, music, and more.

“I joined National Children's Museum as the new President and CEO because I am passionate about STEAM learning,” said Kiryn Hoffman, Museum President and CEO. “I am proud to join a community that invests deeply in guiding young children to curiosity, confidence, and a determination to change the world. Our Dreamers Gala will be an evening of celebrating not only the legacy of this critical DC institution but of exciting work yet to be done.”

The Dreamers Gala will include Honorary Chairs Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) and Congressman Mike Carey (OH-15), who are strong advocates of science, technology, engineering, arts and math learning nationally. Event Co-Chairs are Rae Ann and Jermaine Johnson, Lauren Pratapas and John Legittino, and Heather and Ryan Zimmerman.

The event’s host committee includes Elizabeth and Paul Bonner, Mallory and Nik DeBenedetto, Susan Farkas, Andrea Dykes and Jeremy Fishelberg, Edith Gregson and Erik Smith, Kiristin and Will Harrison, Jasmine and Yunus Katundu, Allison and Jon Kling, Aja and Zac Mohammed, Severine Petras, Jessica Powers-Volz, Carol Han Pyle, and Sepe and Jason Zuccari.

Event sponsors include Mrs. Jacqueline Mars, Agatha and Laurence Aurbach, PNC Bank, The Embassy of the State of Qatar in the United States, General Motors, ArentFox Schiff, American Airlines, American Beverage Association, BELFOR Property Restoration, DC Magazine, Latham & Watkins, Paul R. Monsees and Cathy Ventrell-Monsees, Washingtonian, Akin, Cantilever, Elizabeth and Paul Bonner, Foley & Lardner LLP and Beth Newburger Schwartz.

Event Details

6 pm reception

7 pm dinner

Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium

Dessert and playful afterparty to follow

National Children’s Museum

Valet parking available | Colorful black-tie attire

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About National Children’s Museum

STEAM adventure awaits at National Children’s Museum, located in the heart of downtown Washington, D.C. With a mission to inspire children to care about and change the world, the Museum sparks curiosity and ignites creativity for children under the age of twelve and their families. Through playful science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM) based exhibits, programs, and virtual offerings, the Museum reaches millions of people each year. Learn more and plan your visit at www.nationalchildrensmuseum.org.