The Shedd Aquarium took guests into Dark Waters for its 2016 gala, held June 11. The event raised $1,900,000 for the Shedd’s conservation research initiatives, environmental stewardship programs, rescue and rehabilitation endeavors and education opportunities for kids.
The night featured a steampunk-themed performance of the Shedd’s aquatic program featuring belugas, dolphins, penguins and sea lions in the Abbott Oceanarium. The Chicago Children’s Choir made a surprise appearance, presented by Champion Media Sponsor Make It Better, and Aloft Circus presented an aerial lyra display. Guests ate dinner with the fishes, among the Shedd’s exhibits, and the night concluded with dancing.
“It is humbling to see such generosity from our guests attending this year’s gala, especially the support from all of our Trustees,” Shedd President and CEO Bridget Coughlin said in a press release. “For more than 85 years, Shedd has built public understanding and appreciation of the aquatic world and thanks to our generous supporters, we will continue to inspire the next generation of conservation stewards to make a difference.”
Dark Waters was presented in part by benefactor sponsors AbbVie; J.P. Morgan, Elizabeth Hartigan Connelly; Mr. and Mrs. Thomas N. King, KeyBanc Capital Markets; David and Lesly Koo; SF Foundation and Dover.
Shedd’s conservation and rescue rehabilitation programs.
