Chicago's Adler Planetarium hosted a gala that pulled in $1.2 million for STEAM programs, with Illinois Tool Works named the corporate honoree; the company's CEO is Christopher O'Herlihy. The lakefront fundraiser drew the city's philanthropic circuit for an evening that mixed star-gazing with checkbook-opening.
The $1.2 million figure was reported by Crain's Chicago Business, whose Candid Candace column covers Chicago's nonprofit and philanthropy scene. Illinois Tool Works was named the corporate honoree during the evening, which photographer Kyle Flubacker captured.
A Night Built Around STEAM Funding
The gala's fundraising haul was tied to Adler's STEAM programs. A separate account of the event, per Modern Luxury, describes a Celestial Bash that raised more than $1 million with a stated goal of breaking down barriers in scientific industries and creating spaces where all people can share their unique perspectives while exploring the universe together.
That Modern Luxury account also details a bash where guests explored the museum alongside new exhibitions like Chasing Eclipses and Stargazers Hub.
Adler's gala circuit has featured a rotating cast of honorees and executives over the years. One earlier Celestial Bash, the 29th annual, was held at the same lakefront location and featured then-President and CEO Michelle Larson alongside executive team members Ryu Mizuno, Laura Trouille, Audris Wong and Andrew Johnston, per the Modern Luxury account. That same gala included DJ Tess providing music paired with visuals in the Grainger Theater.
Other Recent Galas Have Honored Local Figures
The Celestial Bash that raised $1.2 million also recognized filmmakers Taylor Witten and Ytasha Womack, Crain's Chicago Business reported.
The varying fundraising totals reported across Adler's galas over time reflect separate events rather than a single, reconciled figure.
