Just a “thank you” seems so inadequate, so how about 27 million thank yous! The Museum celebrated the conclusion of the Capital Campaign in December of 2012, thanking the citizens of Fort Collins, the City of Fort Collins, many governmental entities including the Downtown Development Authority, and hundreds of foundations, businesses, organizations, groups, families and individuals for their contributions to this community jewel.
What does it mean for all of us in northern Colorado?
- 16,000 square feet of hands-on, artifact-based exhibits for all to explore at their own level and pace, featuring donated Hewlett-Packard technology throughout;
- 5,000 square foot Woodward Special Exhibition Gallery, showcasing new traveling exhibitions in 2014;
- Two classrooms equipped with the latest equipment and technology, serving audiences of all ages and stages;
- Initiation of endowment and special funds, ensuring the underserved can participate in FCMoD in perpetuity;
- A Rooftop Observation Deck, located in the Free Zone, offering a 360 degree vista of our area;
- The OtterBox Digital Dome Theater, featuring five immersive shows to enjoy daily.
Mike Dellenbach, co-chair of the Capital Campaign Cabinet, commented, “This has been one of the most heart-felt campaigns I’ve ever been involved with. It makes me and my family proud to be a part of this amazing legacy we are leaving for future generations. From piggy bank and lemonade stand gifts to multi-million dollar contributions, all those funds impacted what we see today.
“I have had many conversations with many individuals over the years, but there is one couple that is a perfect example of the investments that have been made through the past seven years. Mike and Vicki Rainsberger made one of the very first significant contributions when the new museum was just a dream in 2005. Very soon after their first gift, the voters of the City of Fort Collins provided 6 million dollars towards the museum and the campaign was off and running. The Rainsbergers recently stepped forward again to help take us over the top as the campaign ended.”
“The first school field trip to FCMoD was a group of kindergarten students from Weld County, and they squealed with delight at the exhibits and the “One World, One Sky” show in the digital dome,” noted Paula Edwards, Co-Chair of the Campaign Cabinet. “We are proud to report over 47,000 visitors have enjoyed FCMoD since the November 10th Opening Day and more than 2,000 households have purchased memberships in less than two months.”
What’s Next?
The fundraising focus of FCMoD will transition from the capital campaign to fundraising for funds to allow disadvantaged youth to be able to attend the museum free of charge, sponsorship opportunities for traveling exhibits and the endowment fund.
Museum staff is concentrating on keeping the exhibits fresh by adding new elements, and note that there will be more to come through the year. “Several more exhibits are planned for spaces on the main gallery floor,” said Annette Geiselman, Executive Director for the non-profit side of FCMoD.
Cheryl Donaldson, Executive Director for the City added, “We created not only a unique museum with science and history melded throughout, but have a unique management structure as well. Co-owned by the City and the Nonprofit Corporation, each has equal responsibility for ensuring financial success and a fabulous time for visitors.”
You can find more information on this website about exhibits and events, or friend us on Facebook. The Fort Collins Museum of Discovery is located at 408 Mason Court in Fort Collins, and is open from 10 am – 5 pm Tuesday – Sunday. FCMoD is closed on Mondays and most holidays.
Fort Collins Museum of Discovery is a state-of-the-art facility designed to engage visitors in hands-on and minds-on experiences in science and culture. Opportunities for support are ongoing. The Fort Collins Museum of Discovery is located at 408 Mason Court, Fort Collins. For information about the museum and opportunities for support, please call 970-221-6738.
