
The Field Associates' 2007 Year in Review
Presented by the 2007 programming committee:
Elizabeth Cox, chair, David Campbell, John Head, Jill Huchison, Carmen Maso, Susan McHugh, Tony Meyer, Yelina Noskina, Claudine Tambuatco, Marcelo Virgili, Bill Weissinger
January 9 - Visit to David Weinberg Gallery
This private gallery gathering showcased David Weinberg's contemporary photography of West Africa side-by-side with photographs from Field Museum expeditions to the region in the early 1900s. David shared inspirational stories behind this extraordinary show and his appreciation for young professionals who get involved in civic leadership such as The Field Associates. Proceeds from his sales throughout the run of this show benefited the Museum's Anthropology Department.
February 6 - From Data to Dioramas: Evolutionary Studies at The Field Museum
The Field Museum is a leader in studying evolutionary biology and explaining it to the public. Field Museum President John McCarter and Provost Neil Shubin shared how scientific research happening behind-the-scenes is incorporated into temporary and permanent exhibitions in the Museum's public spaces highlighting the specific example of Dr. Shubin's discovery of a 375-million-year-old fossil that represents a "missing link" between fish and land animals, which guests viewed close-up during the private viewing of two exhibitions, Evolving Planet and Gregor Mendel, Planting the Seeds of Genetics.
May 8 - The Photographic Life Sam Abell, National Geographic Photographer
The Field Associates hosted the National Geographic Live! speaker for a private reception at which he shared his passion for Museums and his perspective on the importance of engaging the next generation in the support thereof. At the public lecture, he gave a thoughtful retrospective on his distinguished thirty-year career as a National Geographic Photographer. Field Associates purchased $15 tickets for this premium event and non-members paid $30 to join us (tickets to the lecture alone sell for $22).
June 13 - The Field Associates Hosted the Executives Club New Leaders for their Mentor Appreciation Reception
The Field Associates played host to another outstanding group of young professionals in Chicago for the New Leaders' annual program to honor their mentors. Following the recognition ceremony, guests enjoyed a program on the theme of how leaders emerged in various civilizations as told in The Field Museum's newest permanent exhibition, The Ancient Americas. The program was presented by exhibitions staff members Todd Tubutis and Franck Mercurio, followed by a private exhibition viewing.
Wednesday, August 1 Cool Globes and Cool Treats
This casual event featured the outdoor art exhibition on global warming solutions, Cool Globes: Hot Ideas for a Cooler Planet. Docents guided small groups on highlight tours of the globes around the Museum Campus, followed by an optional outing to Navy Pier to see more globes and enjoy ice cream, drinks, live music and fireworks. Young professionals from the Art Institute and The Chicago Council on Global Affairs were invited to join because of the unique synergy of art, science, and politics that occurred in this extraordinary temporary exhibition of art with a purpose. Members were invited to bring unlimited guests at no charge.
Thursday, September 20 - Darwin Dinner Cruise
The Field Associates set sail for an evening cocktail cruise. Field Museum ornithologist, Dr. John Bates gave a presentation on Darwin's work, life and legacy to the scientific community showing highlights from the temporary Darwin exhibition as well as specimens of finches and mockingbirds from Museum collections. Field Associates purchased $35 tickets for this premium event, and non-member guests paid $50.
Wednesday, October 17 - Maps Preview at The Map Room
The Field Associates had a very festive gathering at The Map Room in Bucktown with a special presentation about the temporary exhibition Maps: Finding our Place in the World, presented by NAVTEQ. Presenters Todd Tubutis and Gretchen Baker from the exhibitions staff showed highlights from this exciting exhibition, in which more than one hundred of the world's greatest maps chart an extraordinary journey through culture, technology, and imagination. Map Room bartenders shared their recommendations for beers to match with maps from corresponding regions.
Sunday, November 4 from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. - Museum Scavenger Hunt
The Field Associates and their guests were divided into four-person teams to explore the Museum in search of answers to questions on a wide array of subjects. It was a fun way to get to know fellow members while exploring many areas of The Field Museum some which they had never seen before. The event concluded with a casual reception and awards for the top team.
Tuesday, December 4 - Volunteers and Holiday Cheer!
We hosted a cookie baking and decorating party to support the annual Children's Holiday Celebration held at the Museum on December 6. In addition to donating cookies, Field Associates were encouraged to volunteer at the event, which was hosted by the Women's Board with a goal of community outreach.