Page 24 - Brookfield Zoo Chicago Annual_Report_2024

FUNDRAISING EVENTS

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“Brilliant Horizons” at the 43 Annual Whirl Gala
On April 27, 2024, the Women’s Guests were treated to memorable Guests danced the night away
Board of Brookfield Zoo Chicago animal encounters during the cocktail to the sounds of the Ken Arlen
and Board of Trustees hosted the hour, including appearances by Evolution Orchestra.
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43 annual Whirl Gala at the Hilton scarlet macaw Ruthie, prehensile-
With the support of attendees and
Chicago. This elegant black-tie event tailed porcupine PJ, tamandua
the generosity of the community,
raised over $1.5 million to support Pederson, Dumeril’s ground boa
the Whirl Gala continues to drive
the Zoo’s animal care, conservation, Medusa, and leopard tortoises Safia
Brookfield Zoo Chicago’s mission
and education programs. The and Kaya. The grand ballroom set
to inspire conservation leadership
evening welcomed 465 corporate, the stage for dinner and featured
and secure a vibrant future
civic, and philanthropic leaders special appearances by Humboldt
for wildlife and nature.
from the Chicagoland area and penguins Pepe, Pedro, and Lila;
was co-chaired by Katie Feagans two-toed sloth T-Mo; and flamingos Top: Cherryl T. Thomas, Dr. Michael J. Adkesson,
of the Women’s Board and Jim Bryan, Fiona, Fabio, and Paprika. Jennifer Bellini, Forest Preserves of Cook County
a member of the Board of Trustees. President Toni Preckwinkle
The evening included a paddle raise,
Middle: Whirl Co-Chairs, Katie Feagans
The theme, “Brilliant Horizons,” raffle drawing, and a live auction and Jim Bryan, look on as American flamingos
celebrated Brookfield Zoo Chicago’s with exclusive experiences, such as take to the dance floor.
90th anniversary while offering Justin Timberlake concert tickets, Group Middle: Women’s Board member
a glimpse into the future through its luxurious stays in the Dominican Melissa Canning with friends Katrina Dee,
transformative Next Century Plan Republic and Croatia, and a private Helen Kalantzis, and Stephanie Ouellette
as the Zoo approaches its 100 th giraffe encounter at the Zoo. Main photo: Members of the Women’s Board
anniversary in 2034. in attendance at the Whirl