Dr. Lori Bettison-Varga, president and director of the Natural History Museums of Los Angeles County, joined Myesha Ward, director of social impact for the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, at the 2023 Dinosaur Ball. (photo by Gina Cholick, courtesy of NHMLAC)

More than 450 guests gathered at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County on April 29 for the biennial Dinosaur Ball, the first in-person gala held since 2019.

The event followed a theme of “Deep Time” inspired by NHMLAC research and collections, with a nod to the current exhibition “L.A. Underwater: The Prehistoric Sea Beneath Us.” The 2023 Dinosaur Ball raised more than $1.4 million to support NHMLAC’s environmental education, science, technology, engineering and math programs.

“From our Outdoor Equity program, Adventures-in-Nature camps and community science activities to our high school marine science and post-baccalaureate internships, we are playing an increasingly crucial role in providing youth in underserved communities with the tools, training and mentorship that will enable them to become the scientists and innovators of tomorrow,” NHM president and director Dr. Lori Bettison-Varga said. “At the Natural History Museums of Los Angeles County, we believe it is urgent that we nurture our children to achieve their very best, providing them the experiences and support they need and deserve to fulfill their potential.”

The evening began with a cocktail hour featuring outdoor activities in NHM’s Nature Gardens. Guests experienced the sights and sounds of the Earth 100 million years ago. Immersive elements indoors celebrated Opening Night at the Museum in 1913, including live music and pop-up dance performances.

The 2023 Dinosaur Ball was hosted by the Board of Trustees of the Natural History Museums of Los Angeles County, with trustees Esther Chui-Chao and Robert Procop serving as co-chairs for the event. Notable guests included television personality Tawny Little, who served as master of ceremonies for bidding on exclusive behind-the-scenes science experiences, television producer Marcy Carsey, actress Paula Patton and Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly Mitchell, 2nd District.

NHMLAC ESTEAM programs supported by the event include the Marine Teen Internship Program, the NSF-funded Understanding Nature and Los Angeles Biodiversity postbaccalaureate research and mentorship program, and projects supported by state Outdoor Equity Grant funding. NHMLAC has developed programs for youth and teens, as well as post-baccalaureate mentoring opportunities, to foster the next generation of scientists and museum professionals.

The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County is located at 900 Exposition Blvd. For information, visit nhm.org.