Admission to Anne Frank The Exhibition is free through the end of September.

The 46th Annual Columbian Ball

Saturday, October 3, 2026

Seated dinner crowd in the Museum Rotunda below two large digital event signs

One iconic institution, one dazzling evening

Saturday, October 3, 2026

The Columbian Ball is the renowned annual black-tie affair in support of Griffin Museum of Science and Industry. Join us for an unforgettable evening in celebration of Griffin MSI's unwavering commitment to fostering future generations of science leaders and innovators. By purchasing a ticket or sponsoring a table at the Columbian Ball, you support Griffin MSI’s work to inspire the inventive genius in everyone.

Seated dinner crowd in the Museum Rotunda as viewed from above

Rosenwald Award honoree

Allan E. Bulley, Jr.

This year, we will honor Allan E. Bulley, Jr. of Bulley & Andrews with the prestigious Rosenwald Award. Mr. Bulley is a longtime supporter of Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, serving as a member of the Board of Trustees for more than 40 years. A stalwart advocate for the Museum’s longevity he has chaired the Building and Grounds Committee through major transformations and was instrumental in landmark projects including renovations of the Entry Hall, parking garage and U-505 Submarine exhibit. Mr. Bulley is the Executive Chairman of Bulley & Andrews, one of Chicago’s oldest and most trusted construction firms. He is deeply passionate about the built environment, having explored and photographed over 100 churches, cathedrals and abbeys. Mr. Bulley shares his expertise with boards across Chicago, ensuring that iconic institutions like Griffin Museum of Science and Industry remain a vibrant thread in the fabric of our city.

Allan E. Bulley, Jr., a man in a dark suit and blue tie, smiles in front of a Chicago cityscape background
Message "Thank you to our sponsors" above logos and names of Columbian Ball sponsors

Questions about the Columbian Ball?

Inspire the inventive genius in you