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“What is so worthwhile about the Friends is reaching out to the community and inspiring and informing them of what we are all about. As they begin to understand the remarkable work the Academy is doing, they become supportive as well. It's an extended community.”
—Joann Franklin-Knox Academy Docent and Ten-Year Member of Friends |
We love our members. But you've got to have Friends! Join our highest level of donors and community leaders on the inside track of the Academy's exciting new era of scientific discovery and education.
Friends Get Closer
Friends of the Academy Benefits
Friends of the Academy get closer to the adventure — and the answers — with extraordinary experiences, expedited access, and a deeper connection to the science and education mission we share. Enjoy all these benefits, plus special privileges linked to your level of engagement:
- Two donor cards that allow free, unlimited admission for member plus two additional adults and all children or grandchildren 18 years of age and younger
- 8 guest passes to share with friends and family
- Express entrance for members only
- Members-only hours
- NEW! Scientist-led morning tour before public opening
- NEW! Designated patron telephone assistance line
- NEW! Invitation to attend a behind-the-scenes family tour with an Academy docent
- Annual special event for Friends
- Complimentary Guild membership for parents with young children
- Recognition in the Academy's annual report
- Subscription to the Academy's member publications
- Free admission to Pritzker Members' Lectures
- Discounts on additional lectures and special programming
- 10% discount at the Academy Store
- Access to the international members' travel program
Friend ($1,000-$1,852)
All but $100 is tax-deductible
All Friends of the Academy benefits
1853 Society ($1,853+)
All but $150 is tax-deductible
All Friends of the Academy benefits, plus:
- Annual 1853 Society Celebration featuring a guest speaker
- Invitations to exhibition opening receptions
- Recognition on our annual donor wall
- Two complimentary tickets to Conversations Herbst Theater
Curators' Society ($2,500+)
All but $200 is tax-deductible
All 1853 Society benefits, plus:
- Private behind-the-scenes opportunities tailored to your interests
- Invitation to an exclusive reception with a renowned Herbst Theater speaker
Scientists' Society ($5000+)
All but $250 is tax-deductible
All Curators' Society benefits, plus:
- NEW! Invitations to a private luncheon with Academy leaders
Collectors' Society ($10,000+)
All except $300 is tax-deductible
All Scientists' Society benefits, plus:
- NEW! Invitations to the opening-night dinner for an Academy exhibition
- NEW! Discounts on renting the Academy for a private event
- NEW! Private VIP behind-the-scenes tour and reception for up to 12 people
To learn more about becoming a Friend of the Academy, please call (415) 379-5405.
Platinum Circle
Our most generous supporters play a leadership role in the Academy's mission and enjoy many VIP privileges as members of the Platinum Circle.
Ecologists' Circle ($25,000+)
All but $350 is tax-deductible
All Collectors' Society benefits, plus:
- NEW! Special invitation to private dinner with the Executive Director, who will share leadership insights into science and the Academy
- NEW! Support for the Careers in Science program, jump-starting the future of a promising young scientist
Conservationists' Circle ($50,000+)
All but $350 is tax-deductible
All Ecologists' Circle benefits, plus:
- NEW! Support for a research project to further the Academy's science mission.
Environmentalists' Circle ($100,000+)
All but $350 is tax-deductible
All Conservationists' Circle benefits, plus:
- NEW! Support of an exhibition
To learn more about becoming a Platinum Circle donor, please call us at (415) 379-5413.


