Museum of Nature & Science Surpasses $185 Million Goal To Build New Perot Museum More Than One Year Before Doors Open

DALLAS, Nov. 17, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Amidst cheers, confetti and overall hoopla, the Museum of Nature & Science announced today that it has not only surpassed its $185 million goal to build the new Perot Museum of Nature & Science but achieved the milestone more than a year before the doors open to the Victory Park facility.  The announcement came just minutes after Museum leaders revealed that The Moody Foundation had contributed $6 million to name the Children's Museum and the education Forum at the new Perot Museum of Nature & Science.  

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20111117/DC09406 )

"Despite the challenges of raising money during an extremely tough economic environment, the importance of science education and the desire to invest in our future prevailed.  The North Texas community has warmly embraced our mission, and, consequently, we have exceeded the $185 million goal to build the Perot Museum of Nature & Science," said Forrest Hoglund, chair of the Perot Museum of Nature & Science Expansion Campaign.  

The Moody Foundation gift – with $5 million earmarked for the Children's Museum and $1 million for the Forum – will result in the children's center being named the Moody Family Children's Museum and the multi-purpose gathering spot in the education wing being designated the Robert and Ann Moody Forum.  

"The Moody Foundation's gift will have an enormous impact on future generations because studies show that early childhood is an optimal time for learning," said Nicole G. Small, CEO of the Museum of Nature & Science.  "If we can get kids excited about science and math in the early years, we believe that enthusiasm will continue and will ultimately lead to more children pursuing careers in the sciences."

Sharing that sentiment was Dallas resident Francie Moody-Dahlberg, daughter of Robert and Ann Moody and granddaughter of founder William Moody. Ms. Moody-Dahlberg also serves as executive director and trustee of The Moody Foundation.

"Education is incredibly important, and helping our little ones get ready for educational challenges and opportunities in an enjoyable, exciting atmosphere is one of the most significant things we do," said Ms. Moody-Dahlberg. "I believe the Children's Museum will become one of the cornerstones of early childhood education in Dallas and far beyond."

Today's momentous occasion comes almost two years to the date after groundbreaking ceremonies were held (on November 18, 2009).  Young children from the Museum of Nature & Science's Science School popped out of a specially designed gift box when the announcement was made, as the jazz ensemble from Dallas ISD's Barack Obama Male Leadership Academy added musical pizzazz.  Emerging "balloon creatures" caught guests by surprise, cannons spewed biodegradable confetti,  glasses of champagne were passed, and Forrest Hoglund led the crowd in a celebratory toast.

Major donors include the Perot children, who gave $50 million in honor of their parents Margot and Ross Perot.  The Rees-Jones Foundation donated $25 million; and Hunt Petroleum Corporation, The Hoglund Foundation and Family, and T. Boone Pickens each gave $10 million.  Making $5 million gifts were The Honorable and Mrs. William P. Clements, Jr.; and Mr. and Mrs. Edward W. Rose III.  Texas Instruments Foundation contributed $4.4 million, and David and Emily Corrigan, and Catherine Corrigan donated $2.5 million. There were more than a dozen $1 million gifts, a total of $14 million in matching grants, and hundreds of gifts ranging from a few dollars and up.  

To donate to the Perot Museum Expansion Campaign or to learn more, go to natureandscience.org.  

CONTACT:
Becky Mayad  
[email protected]
214-352-1881

SOURCE Museum of Nature & Science