CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago (MSI) today announced a $125 million gift from the Kenneth C. Griffin Charitable Fund, the largest single gift in the Museum’s history. In recognition of this historic gift, the Museum will become the Kenneth C. Griffin Museum of Science and Industry.
“We are honored to receive this incredibly generous gift, which helps ensure that MSI remains a vital resource for science learning in the 21st century,” said David Mosena, president and chief executive officer, MSI. “Our mission has always been to inspire the inventive genius in everyone. This gift will allow us to continue providing the kind of innovative experiences and programs that work to achieve that mission for generations to come.”
The majority of this gift will be dedicated to securing the Museum’s long-term future as one of the premier science museums in the country, which last year saw over 1.5 million visitors. These funds will also support MSI’s plans to create the Pixel Studio, a state-of-the-art digital gallery and performance space that will be the only experience of its kind in North America.
“The Museum of Science and Industry celebrates our greatest scientific and commercial achievements and ignites the imaginations of all who visit,” said Ken Griffin, founder and chief executive officer of Citadel. “As one of the most important institutions of science in the world, the Museum’s impact extends far beyond its halls. I am honored to support MSI’s mission to inspire the next generation of scientific exploration and innovation.”
“MSI has diligently worked to maximize opportunities for its guests to be hands-on across a wide range of scientific concepts to help people realize the broad spectrum of career paths available,” said Chris Crane, president and chief executive officer of Exelon Corporation, and the Museum’s board chairman. “A gift of this magnitude will ensure MSI can continue to empower Chicago’s youth with the foundation they need to be at the forefront of the next generation of STEM leaders.”
This gift propels Limitless, the Museum’s capital campaign, past $300 million in total funds raised. The campaign is designed to support a new generation of cutting-edge experiences that foster curiosity and creativity by creating new exhibitions; funding the Museum’s groundbreaking education programs; reimagining the Museum’s iconic galleries; and modernizing the building.
“At MSI, we have a proud history of using a sense of awe to entice and engage our guests, helping STEM concepts come to life in ways they never imagined,” continued Mosena. “We undertook this campaign to continue evolving the MSI experience while inspiring our audiences to see themselves as active participants in creating the world of tomorrow.”
About MSI
The Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago (MSI), one of the largest science museums in the world, offers world-class and uniquely interactive experiences that inspire inventive genius and foster curiosity. From groundbreaking and award-winning exhibits that can’t be found anywhere else, to hands-on opportunities that make you the scientist—a visit to MSI is where fun and learning mix. Through its Welcome to Science Initiative, the Museum offers a variety of student, teacher and family educational programs that make a difference in communities and contribute to MSI’s larger vision: to inspire and motivate children to achieve their full potential in science, technology, medicine and engineering. The Museum is exceptionally grateful for the support of its donors and guests, who make its work possible. MSI is also supported in part by the people of Chicago through the Chicago Park District. For more information, visit msichicago.org or call (773) 684-1414.