“If there is magic on this planet, it is contained in water.”
Loren Eiseley
Nearly a century ago, John G. Shedd’s vision of opening a world-class aquarium in Chicago came to life. From the building’s marble halls to exquisite aquatic life, Shedd Aquarium was designed to inspire.
Over the past 95 years, Shedd’s impact on aquatic science, conservation and community has transformed the aquarium into a global force for the preservation of our planet.
Generations of supporters, like you, have shaped Shedd into a place where the leaders of tomorrow find the spark to take action for the aquatic world.
Join us for an unforgettable evening of celebrating our incredible blue planet, those who brought us this far and the bright future to come.
A WAVE OF THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS
Marci Matthews
Nancy S. Searle
Mary L. Burke
Rick & Dixie
Erwin
Daniel P. Haerther
Charitable Trust
Kimberlee S. Herold
ITW
David & Lesly Koo
Jayne & Jerry Krulewitch
Mr. & Mrs. Stephen Byron Smith
Jenner & Block
KeyBanc
Capital Markets
Doug McClure / Associated Bank
Mr. and Mrs. Andrew McNally V
Helen Shedd
Reed
Keith and Lisa Reed
James and Ginevra Reed Ralph
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR IN-KIND SPONSORS
Sodexo
ADDITIONAL EVENING SUPPORT
Harvey L. Miller Supporting Foundation
Alex & Parita Singla
Joyce St. Clair
Sponsorship Opportunities
One (1) premier dinner table for 10 guests
One (1) behind-the-scenes tour (valid through Sept. 30, 2026)
Ten (10) tickets to 2025 or 2026 Members Jazzin’
One (1) virtual program (valid through Sept. 30, 2026)
Special champagne toast at table
Verbal recognition during Gala program
Prominent recognition in Gala invitation
Prominent recognition in program book
Prominent recognition on Gala on-site signage
Recognition in Gala digital communications and website
One (1) choice dinner table for 10 guests
One (1) behind-the-scenes tour (valid through Sept. 30, 2026)
Recognition in Gala invitation
Recognition in program book
Recognition on Gala on-site signage
Recognition in Gala digital communications and website
One (1) dinner table for 10 guests
Recognition in Gala invitation
Recognition in program book
Recognition on Gala on-site signage
Recognition in Gala digital communications and website
For customized sponsorship opportunities, please contact Tawanna Streater at [email protected] or 312-692-3170.
Guests will register at a tent along the circle drive on Solidarity Drive and enter the event via the South Terrace gardens.
Complimentary valet service will be provided on Shedd’s circle drive. Taxis and rideshares can drop off in front of the Smith Family waterfall garden.
The event begins with a cocktail reception at 5:30 PM and concludes at midnight.
Shedd is happy to accommodate your dietary needs and appreciates the opportunity to plan to do so. If you are hosting a table, you may provide your guests names/dietary notes in the Table Guest Survey you will receive via email. If you are attending as the guest of an event sponsor, please contact [email protected].
Yes, Shedd serves sustainable and responsibly sourced seafood to protect the health of our ocean and lakes. For more information about how you can support abundant marine life through sustainable food choices, please visit our sustainable seafood page.
