Historically, fall is such a wonderful time of year on campus and this year is no exception, especially as we prepare to unveil another incredible exhibition at the Harn. Becoming a Woman in the Age of Enlightenment: French Art from The Horvitz Collection offers a wonderful opportunity for the Gainesville and University community to see a world-class collection in their own backyard. Beyond the 150 works on display, I encourage you to take a peek at the credit line when this exhibition opens next week. The credit line is located on the title wall and is a place where the museum acknowledges and thanks the generous donors that have assisted in making it possible for the Harn to present this exhibition to you. In particular, I’d like to draw your attention to the last group of donors - "a group of women in the UF community.” This special group of women along with their partners and families are a shining example of collective giving at its best, demonstrating what can happen when many individuals each give what they can to support the museum and working together to make a greater difference. The average individual gift was significantly less than $1,000 but, because everyone did a little, together the group was able to contribute over $22,000 in support of this exhibition.

I ask you to think about what amount you and your family can give to the Harn to support the work of the museum. As shown by this devoted group of women from our UF community, no gift is too small to help reach a goal. I'll leave you with a few options for ways you can support the museum at an amount that is comfortable for you and your personal philanthropy:

If you enjoy social gatherings where your participation provides resources for the museum, you should look into our Harn Mixer series and purchase a ticket to Norman and Roslyn Levy's party on October 19.

If you prefer to make a gift to the annual fund, which supports all the activities of the museum, you can make a gift online, send a check to the museum, or call the development office for assistance.

If you enjoy travel and would like to spend more time with representatives from the museum while exploring art outside the country and supporting the museum at the same time, check out our Harn Voyage program.

Or, if you prefer to plan your giving for a later time in your life, give me a call and we can discuss some options that would best help you fulfill your philanthropic goals.

There are many ways for you to support the museum and help the Harn continue to present world class exhibitions to the University and local community. We are always available to help you find the best giving strategy for you and your family. Together, we will continue to make the museum even greater.

Kelly C. Harvey

The Harn Museum of Art relies on individuals, foundations and corporate entities to support exhibitions, programs and other initiatives. Learn how you can support the art museum of the Gator Nation through making Annual Gifts, Gift Planning or by becoming a Harn Member!

Private and corporate gifts are crucial in supporting the Harn's exhibitions, programs, acquisitions, research, travel, art conservation and general operations. Please contact the Harn's development office to discuss your gifting options to determine the best way for you to support the museum.