CFANS honors donors at the Bell Museum with celebration and showcase
October 4, 2024
LI YAN TAN, STRATEGIC COMMUNICATION, BA '25
Last week, CFANS hosted its second annual Celebrating Friends: Appreciation Night and Showcase at the Bell Museum, bringing together nearly 200 generous supporters, alumni, faculty, and staff for a night of gratitude and discovery. This special event was a heartfelt “thank you” to the donors who make CFANS impactful work possible. See more photos from the event.
Holly Menninger, Executive Director of the Bell Museum, warmly welcomed guests while sharing an updated on the Museum's past year of programming. CFANS Dean Brian Buhr then gave remarks, expressing deep gratitude for the continued support that allows the College to make a real difference in Minnesota and beyond.
As the evening unfolded, smiles, laughter, and joyful conversation filled the museum, with Goldy Gopher making an appearance to interact with guests, adding even more fun to the festive atmosphere. Guests were taking pictures, chatting, and sharing a memorable, fun time together.
The event showcased CFANS’s cutting-edge research through interactive displays led by faculty members and graduate researchers. In the casual, open house-style setting, guests were able to engage in one-on-one conversations with researchers making a big impact across various fields. CFANS faculty that participated included:
- Exploring the depths of freshwater ecosystems—featuring Gretchen Hansen
- Transforming agriculture through clean energy and fertilizer—featuring Brad Heins
- Tracking chronic wasting disease in waterways—featuring Diana Karwan
- Leveraging “leaf glow” to monitor and mitigate climate change—featuring Rui Cheng
- Boosting sustainability and profitability for indoor farmers—featuring Nathan Eylands
- Developing nutritional strategies to fight kidney disease—featuring Katie Hill Gallant
The night was a testament to the incredible work being done across CFANS disciplines, all made possible by the unwavering generosity of donors. Attendees left inspired, proud, and even more connected to the College’s mission of advancing agriculture, food systems, and natural resources for the betterment of Minnesota and beyond.
Vendors
Thank you to the vendors who partnered with us on this event!
- Venue—Bell Museum
- Photography—Craig Bares
- Catering—D'Amico & Sons
- Beer brewed with Kernza®—Bang Brewery
