The Hyde Collection’s annual gala raised $150,000 to benefit the museum’s programs and exhibitions.
Some 170 people attended the Oct. 6 event, which celebrated the opening of “A Shared Legacy: Folk Art in America.”
“We are thrilled with the generosity of our supporters,” said Interim Director Anne Saile. “We could not have asked for a more perfect evening.”
Among those in attendance were Sam and Pat Hoopes, whose $50,000 sponsorship of the event inspired others to donate and helped The Hyde exceed its fundraising goals for the gala, officials said. The Hoopes family helped welcome folk art collector Barbara Gordon, from whose collection the exhibition is drawn.
The event was emceed by WAMC personality Joe Donahue. Board of Trustees Chairman Karl Seitz presented former Museum Director Erin Coe with an award of appreciation for her years of service.
The gala was catered by Lily and the Rose Farm-to-Table Catering. Musical act John Kribs and the Trophy Husbands performed.
The event included a “raise the paddle” event, in which attendees offered support to the museum’s education programs, as well as a live auction event.
“It’s exciting that so many people recognize the importance of arts programs for children,” said Hyde educator Jenny Hutchinson. “We provide programming to more than 2,000 kids a year, through free weekly programs, school tours, and workshops.”
“As a nonprofit organization, we rely heavily on the support of donors,” Saile said. “This kind of fundraising helps enhance our exhibitions and programs, and for that, we’re so grateful.”