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| The new Miami Science Museum will be named the “Patricia and Phillip Frost Museum of Science” with groundbreaking within the year. (Photo: Business Wire) |
Largest donor commitment puts Museum past halfway mark towards $100 million private fundraising goal
MIAMI–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Internationally recognized leader in business, science and philanthropy, Dr. Phillip Frost, and his wife Patricia, have committed $35 million dollars to the capital campaign for Miami Science Museum’s new building at Museum Park. Trish and Dan Bell, Co-Chairs of the Board of Trustees, announced the commitment this past Saturday at the ninth annual Galaxy Gala, the Museum’s signature fundraising event. The new Museum will be named the “Patricia and Phillip Frost Museum of Science” with groundbreaking within the year.
The Frosts’ dedication to Miami Science Museum’s new building is an instrumental step forward in a significant public/private partnership. The $35-million commitment will be added to the $25-million already raised from a broad cross-section of individuals and corporations in South Florida. Their generosity will bring the project past the halfway mark of its $100 million private fundraising goal. The remaining funds that complete the estimated $275 million overall project cost are granted by Miami-Dade County’s Building Better Communities Bond Program, overwhelmingly approved by voters in 2004, and other government sources.
Dr. and Mrs. Frost have been long-time supporters of arts and culture. “This landmark project will provide unique experiences that can change people’s perspective on the potential value of science and technology for their lives. We hope that, with our help, the Patricia and Phillip Frost Museum of Science will become known as a cultural institution truly for the people,” said Dr. and Mrs. Frost.
Designed by internationally renowned Grimshaw Architects, the 250,000 square-foot complex is intended to act as a demonstration of ecological and sustainability principles, harnessing energy from water, sun, wind and museum visitor energy to power exhibits and conserve resources. The Museum is structured around a lushly landscaped indoor and outdoor “living core” of terrestrial and aquatic spaces, featuring a 600,000 gallon aquarium facility, a full dome 3-D planetarium, hands-on exhibits, never-before-seen technology and two additional wings of exhibition space, classrooms and cafes.
With the support of the City of Miami, Miami-Dade County and others in the community, the new Patricia and Phillip Frost Museum of Science is on track to be a stand-out destination, inspiring visitors to learn, share and embrace science and technology.
ABOUT PATRICIA AND PHILLIP FROST
Dr. and Mrs. Frost are generous supporters of education and the arts and are renowned collectors. In 1986, they gave their 113-piece collection of American abstract art to the Smithsonian Institution. In 2004, they endowed The Patricia and Phillip Frost School of Music at the University of Miami, and in 2006, they were the lead donors for The Patricia and Phillip Frost Art Museum at Florida International University.
ABOUT MIAMI SCIENCE MUSEUM
Miami Science Museum aims to make a difference in people’s lives by inspiring them to appreciate the impact that science and technology can have on every facet of our world. For over 60 years, Miami Science Museum’s award-winning educational programs, family-focused exhibits, historic planetarium, and rehabilitative Wildlife Center and Clinic have enriched locals and tourists alike. Visit www.miasci.org/blog. Miami Science Museum is funded with the support of the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and the Cultural Affairs Council, the Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners.
