Donor Stories
Hear inspiring stories from donors about how the benefits of supporting the Academy go both ways.
The Academy relies on donor support to accomplish all that we do. Below, discover perspectives from a few of the Academy partners that help bring our mission to life.
Supporting the pursuit of passion
Domenic and Lauren Narducci
Director's Circle members
The passion of our scientists resonated deeply with the Narduccis, leading to their recent major gift in support of marine science initiatives. "Academy scientists are empowered to explore their own interests, and the people who are the best at their jobs are the ones who are the most passionate.”
An investment in science and education
Laura and Mike Patnode
Friends Circle members
“The Academy presents long-term value by increasing our investment in science and education and helping form the sort of world we want our children to grow up in. We need to make sure our children have the skills they need to solve problems, and the biggest thing is to educate children about science. We take every opportunity to talk about the Academy with friends and family—we feel good being associated with such a wonderful place and doing our part to promote it.”
Thriving together
Randi Fisher
Co-Founder and Trustee of the Pisces Foundation
“Our Foundation’s vision is people and nature thriving together, and when I walk the floor at the Academy, I see this vision coming to life around me. The Pisces Foundation believes environmental literacy is a critical component of a more sustainable world. We made a significant gift to the Academy as our partner in this important work because of the institution’s creative and exciting efforts to expand the reach of environmental education.”
Foundation and Government Partners
Serving local communities
Laysha Ward
President of Community Relations for Target
“At Target, we are committed to serving local communities where we do business. That’s why we are proud to partner with the California Academy of Sciences as we work to strengthen communities and enrich the lives of our guests and team members.”