FOTCPM Annual Report 2024-25 : simplebooklet.com

TABLE OF CONTENTS1A Letter From the President2About the Friends of Capitol Park Museum4A Year in Review6About Capitol Park Museum8Museum Programming Support10Community Partnerships12Friends Events14Awards & Recognition2024-25 Annual Impact Report Friends of the Capitol Park Museum17Event Spotlights22Community Engagement24Membership26Upcoming Events27Finances

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A LETTER FROM THE Dear Friends, Supporters, and Partners,As I reflect on this transformative year for the Friends of the Capitol Park Museum, I am bothhumbled and honored to serve as the youngest President of a Friends group within theLouisiana State Museum system. This past year has been one of dynamic transition, boldinnovation, and powerful recommitment to our mission of supporting the Capitol ParkMuseum and amplifying Louisiana’s rich and vibrant cultural history.When I assumed the role of Board President in November 2024, I stepped into a legacy builtby incredible leadership and unwavering community support. I also recognized that it wastime for our organization to grow in deeper, more meaningful ways — by broadening ourpartnerships, reimagining our programming, and strengthening our role as stewards of themuseum's future.Over the past twelve months, we have expanded our calendar of events, welcomed newcommunity partners, and found creative ways to bring Louisiana history to life — not just inexhibits, but in real-time conversations, celebrations, and service. We’ve amplified voices,forged intergenerational connections, and grown our capacity as an organization. Frombringing back our First Free Sunday program, to producing a record-breaking Spanish TownParade event, our momentum is real — and it's only just beginning.As we look ahead to another year of growth, I remain committed to our core values:accessibility, community, history, cultural pride, and public engagement. Our work is farfrom done, but the foundation we’ve laid this year is strong. I thank each of you who havewalked with us on this journey — and invite you to keep building this future together.With gratitude and purpose,P resident1PRESIDENTNOV 2024 - PRESENTGriffin LandryGriffin Landry, PresidentFriends of the Capitol Park MuseumPHOTO CREDIT: BUTTERFLIES OF HOPE PHOTOGRAPHY

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The Friends of Capitol Park Museum arededicated to fostering a vibrant andinclusive community through thepreservation and celebration ofLouisiana's rich cultural history. Weunite passionate individuals andorganizations to support the CapitolPark Museum's educational initiatives,elevate public offerings, and ensureequitable access to our shared history.OUR MISSIONIn 2009, a group of enthusiastic and dedicated citizens came together to form theLouisiana State Museum Friends, later known as the Friends of the Capitol Park Museum.The Friends organized with the intent to further the museum’s educational mission andinteraction with the communities it serves. Within a year, the first board was formed,501(c) 3 status was sought and granted by the Internal Revenue Service, and a formalrelationship with the Louisiana State Museum was established.Since our beginning, the Friends of the CapitolPark Museum have raised more than $160,000to support the educational programming,exhibits and special projects at the Capitol ParkMuseum. To date, the Friends have a growingmembership. We also boast our signatureevent, the very popular Spanish Town ParadeParty in addition to regularly sponsoringexhibit openings at Capitol Park Museum andother social functions the museum hosts.2

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Griffin Landry Chinita Williams Dr. Jerry ParkerPresident VP of Administration VP of EducationBOARD OF DIRECTORSBOARD OF DIRECTORS2024-2025Trent Threeton Taylor Raiford Brandon LewisVP of Membership Secretary Board MemberMarkita Hawkins Chenese LewisBoard MemberImmediate PastPresident3INTERESTED IN JOINING THE BOARD? Email info@capitolparkfriends.org for more information!Darryl GisselLSM Board RepPhillip AlbertLSM Board Rep

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The past year has marked a definingmoment for the Friends of the CapitolPark Museum. With bold leadershiptransitions and a clear, museumcommunity-driven vision, we expandedour outreach, deepened partnerships,and strengthened our presence acrossBaton Rouge and beyond.This year brought several historic firsts,including our first-ever Summer at theMuseum program, first Black HistoryMonth program, and the return of FirstFree Sundays, which reconnected thepublic to the Museum in meaningfulways.We celebrated record-breakingattendance at the 2025 Spanish TownParade and achieved the highest levelsof engagement in our 16-year historyacross events, programs, school grouptrips, and overall museum visitation.These accomplishments reflect agrowing desire for inclusive, relevantcultural experiences and our team'sability to deliver them with purposeand passion.These milestones reflect more thangrowth—they represent a renewedtrust and enthusiasm from thecommunity we serve. With continuedfocus on accessibility, inclusion, andinnovation, we are proud to bebuilding a stronger cultural foundationfor future generations. Thank you forbeing part of this remarkable journey.4This Year In ReviewBuilding on Legacy, Leading with PurposeDigital Membership CardsIn 2024, the Friends of the CapitolPark Museum became the first, andonly, in the Louisiana State Museumsystem to launch digital membershipcards. This new feature offersmembers instant, convenient accessto benefits via their smartphones andsimplifies membership management.By adopting this technology, we’remodernizing the member experienceand setting a new standard formuseums statewide—making it easierthan ever to stay connected andengaged!

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In December 2024, the Capitol ParkMuseum debuted “Billy Cannon: TheyCalled Him Legend”, celebrating the lifeand legacy of one of Louisiana’s mosticonic athletes. The opening eventwelcomed community members, fans, andleaders to honor Cannon’s impact onsports and state pride.The exhibit features rare memorabilia,photos, and stories that highlight hisjourney from Heisman winner to Louisianalegend. It’s a powerful tribute to a figurewho helped shape the cultural fabric ofour state.This year, the Friends of the Capitol ParkMuseum forged bold, community-rooted partnerships that brought ourmission to life—making history moreaccessible, inclusive, and engaging.We proudly partnered with the BatonRouge Shakespeare Festival, expandingour arts education and culturalprogramming at the Museum. We alsocontinued our collaboration with BatonRouge Pride, co-hosting the secondannual Red Gala, a celebration ofinclusion and shared history that drewrecord participation.These initiatives laid the groundwork fordeeper educational outreach and year-round engagement. Our efforts this yearproved that when community, culture,and creativity intersect, lasting impactfollows. Together, we’re expandingaccess, strengthening the Museum’srole as a cultural anchor, and helpingshape a more vibrant Louisiana.5new friendsExhibition Highlight

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the Capitol Park Museum opened its doors asthe largest and most comprehensive survey exhibit ofLouisiana history, culture, and art in the State. Its mission, “tocollect, preserve and present, as an educational resource,objects of art, documents, artifacts and the like that reflectthe history, art and culture of Louisiana for the citizens andvisitors to the State of Louisiana” is supported by ten fulltime staff and a growing number of volunteers drawn fromthe Friends of the Capitol Park Museum, student interns, andcommunity and corporate volunteer organizations.The Capitol Park Museum tells a story of passion, adventure,and discovery that could have happened only in the BayouState. Come explore a way of life like no other. With anemphasis on residents, visitors, and K-12 schools inLouisiana; the Museum continues to reach an internationalaudience while growing its visitation by, and impact on,Louisiana’s K-12 students.Capitol Park Museum660 N. Fourth StreetBaton Rouge, LA 70802225-342-54286$10 for Adults $8 for Senior Citizens, Active Military, and StudentsFREE for Children 6 and UnderSchool groups are FREE with reservations. Groups of 15 or morewith reservations receive a discount of $2.00 off per ticket. AAAMembers receive a 10% discount.HOURSTuesdays–Saturdays9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.Last ticket sale at 3:30 p.m. Closed on Sundays, Mondays, and state holidaysIn 2006,

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MUSEUMEngagementThis year, the Friends of Capitol Park Museum proudlyopened our doors to a growing number of school andyouth groups, offering engaging educationalexperiences that bring Louisiana’s diverse history tolife. We were also honored to host special tours forLouisiana Festival Queens, international delegations,and reporters from around the world, as well asseveral of our Partner Organizations. These visitsreflect our ongoing commitment to making themuseum not only a place of learning, but also agathering space that fosters inclusion, pride, andconnection among all who walk through our doors.By welcoming groups of all ages and backgrounds, wecontinue to strengthen our role as a community-centered institution that prioritizes education, culturalexchange, and civic engagement. These efforts arepart of our broader mission to ensure that the stories,traditions, and achievements of Louisiana’s peopleremain accessible, relevant, and celebrated. Each visit,whether from a local school or an internationaldelegation, reinforces our belief that history is not justsomething to be studied—it is something to be sharedand experienced together.77,827Student and YouthGroup AttendeesFAM Tour Attendees74IMPACT SNAPSHOTStudent & Youth Groups165

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This year, the Capitol Park Museum debuted Billy Cannon:They Called Him Legend, an extraordinary exhibitionexploring the full story of one of Louisiana’s mostcelebrated and complex figures. Best known as LSU’s firstHeisman Trophy winner and a football icon of the 1950sand 60s, Billy Cannon’s legacy extends far beyond thegridiron. Billy Cannon – They Called Him LegendThe exhibit traces Cannon’s journey from his days as a star athlete at BatonRouge’s Istrouma High School, through his record-breaking career at LSU, andinto his professional years in the AFL and NFL, where he became one of theleague’s highest-paid players. But his life took an unexpected turn in the1980s, when he was convicted of counterfeiting and served time in federalprison. His story didn’t end there—after his release, Cannon dedicated himselfto serving others, working for over two decades as a prison dentist at theLouisiana State Penitentiary at Angola. There, he earned the respect ofinmates and staff alike, who came to know him simply as “Legend.”Featuring artifacts from the Cannon family’s private collection, the exhibitincludes his Heisman Trophy, Houston Oilers jersey, Istrouma lettermanjacket, and even the lab coat he wore while serving at Angola. Photographs,newspaper clippings, and personal items round out this powerful tribute to aman whose life was filled with highs, lows, and ultimately, redemption.The exhibition invites visitors to consider the full measure of a man—his triumphs, his flaws, and his enduring impact on Louisiana’s sports, history, and culture.8December 17, 2024 – January 10, 2026

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9From December 10, 2024, to January 17, 2025, CapitolPark Museum hosted The American RevolutionExperience, a national traveling exhibit from the AmericanBattlefield Trust and the DAR’s John James AudubonChapter. Through vivid illustrations, interactive kiosks, andprimary sources, the exhibit explored diverse and oftenoverlooked stories of the Revolutionary era—including theroles of Indigenous peoples, enslaved individuals, andLoyalists. Its Baton Rouge stop was especially meaningful,located near the site of the 1779 Battle of Baton Rouge. Apublic Discovery Day on December 14 offered family-friendly activities and special programming. This dynamicexhibit helped visitors see the Revolution through abroader, more inclusive lens.The American Revolution Experience: Traveling ExhibitProjectsDetailsOutcomeFirst Free SundayThe Friends donated $5,070 tothe museum in the past year tohost First Free SundaysThis allows anyone to visitthe museum free of cost!LunchtimeLagniappeThe Friends sponsored a hand-full of Lunchtime LagniappeeventsIndividuals and groups canattend based on sharedinterest of the discussedtopics that day!Discovery DayThe Friends donated activitysupplies to the Museum’smonthly Discovery Days.This event allows visitors tojoin us at the museum for adiscounted rate and aspecial program!Museum programming events

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Community PartnershipsSupplying museum resources: Friends of the CapitolPark Museum can offer resources for your team ororganization, such as museum experts to facilitate anactivity, venue space, talent with visiting artists,collaboration with exhibitions and programming, andevent partnership.Consulting and collaboration opportunities: Weseek reciprocal relationships when working withpartners to consult or collaborate on partner-ledprojects and museum projects.Connecting: Friends of the Capitol Park Museumserves as a connector between partners and otherpeople/artists/organizations in the region.Community Partnerships begin with collaboration and discussion with partners(organizations, groups, and artists) to evaluate and align missions, shared goals, audienceneeds, and activities. We seek to consider how we can maintain partnerships with anorganization or business for lasting change.$18,500Received in Sponsorshipsand In-Kind DonationsTotal Partnerships58IMPACT SNAPSHOT10Partnership opportunities are developed in a variety of ways:

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2025 Black history month programIn honor of Black History Month 2025, the Friends ofCapitol Park Museum hosted CelebratingLeadership: Honoring African American Leaders inHigher Education, a moving tribute to transformativeblack educators in Louisiana. Held on February 26,the evening brought together community members,advocates, and leaders for a celebration ofexcellence and impact.Honorees included Southern University System President Dennis J. Shields, BRCC Chancellor Dr. Willie E.Smith Sr., and Commissioner of Higher Education Dr. Kim Hunter Reed. Mayor-President Sid Edwardsjoined in recognizing their service to education and the Baton Rouge community. Lieutenant GovernorBilly Nungesser presented the honorees and community partners with certificates recognizing them asLouisiana Ambassadors for their contributions. Guests were also invited to view the Baton Rouge Alliancefor Students' “Education is a Civil Right” display and enjoy a curated museum tour.The night ended with a powerful message from Friends Board Member Markita Hawkins: “Let this eveningbe more than just a moment—let it be a call to action. A call to support, uplift, and fiercely invest in thesuccess of Black educators, students, and institutions.”This landmark event, supported by valued partners like the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, 100Black Men of Metro Baton Rouge, and the Baton Rouge Alliance for Students, reflected the Friends’continued commitment to equity, access, and honoring those shaping the future of education.12

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Summer at the museumThis year, the Friends of Capitol Park Museumproudly launched Summer at the Museum, a freshand dynamic program offering weekly themedevents that combined music, movies, STEMactivities, and maker projects. Designed to engagefamilies and youth, the program brought history andculture to life through hands-on experiences andcreative exploration.From interactive science experiments and makerworkshops to outdoor movie nights and live musicperformances, Summer at the Museum provideddiverse opportunities for learning and fun. Theprogram welcomed visitors of all ages to connectwith Louisiana’s heritage in innovative andentertaining ways, making the museum a vibrantsummer destination.With enthusiastic community response and growingattendance, Summer at the Museum has establisheditself as a meaningful seasonal tradition that sparkscuriosity and creativity year-round.education conferenceBeginning this fall, the Friends of Capitol Park Museum areproud to launch a new biannual tradition: the Capitol ParkMuseum Education Conference. This initiative deepens ourcommitment to educational programming and communitylearning. Our first conference, taking place next month, isthemed Bayou Life: Connecting Culture, Industry, and theEnvironment in Louisiana. The event will bring togethereducators, cultural leaders, students, and communitymembers for a day of dialogue, exploration, and hands-onengagement. Through panels, exhibits, and interactive sessions, we aim toilluminate how Louisiana’s unique bayou ecosystems haveshaped its cultural identity, industries, and environmentalfuture. This conference marks a new chapter in our work tosupport lifelong learning and amplify the stories that defineour state.13

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This year, the Friends of Capitol Park Museum and our dedicated partners have achievedsignificant milestones and garnered prestigious awards that highlight our commitmentto excellence and community engagement.14The Advocate: Best of Baton Rouge AwardsThis year, the Friends of the Capitol ParkMuseum received exciting recognition in TheAdvocate’s 2025 Best of Baton RougeAwards. We were honored with threenominations and took home Gold for BestAnnual Event for our Spanish Town ParadeParty, and Silver for Best Museum.These community-voted awards reflect thegrowing impact of our programs and thevalue we bring to Baton Rouge’s culturallandscape. We’re grateful to everyone whovoted and continue to support our missionto make history come alive.The Friends of the Capitol Park Museum is proud to announce a recordeight nominations in Baton Rouge Parents Magazine’s 2025 FamilyFavorites Awards—the most we’ve ever received!We’re honored to be recognized in the following categories: FavoriteNonprofit, Favorite Museum, Favorite Summer Program, Favorite GiftStore, Favorite Event Venue, Favorite Family Entertainment Venue,Favorite Community Event, and Favorite Outreach Program.This incredible recognition highlights the growing impact of our programsand the trust families place in our work. Voting closes August 15, andwe’re grateful for every vote and show of support. Thank you for helpingus make the Capitol Park Museum a true community favorite!Record-Breaking Recognition: 2025 Family Favorites contestinclusion in inregister magazineOur Summer at the Museum program wasfeatured in the InRegister magazinenewsletter, highlighting our new family-friendly initiative as a must-visit culturalexperience in Baton Rouge this season.

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The Capitol Park Museum was proudly featured in Forbes'article, “Baton Rouge Puts Its Own Special Spin on Mardi Gras,”highlighting our role in preserving and sharing Louisiana’scultural legacy:This national recognition reflects our growing reputation as amust-visit destination for both locals and visitors seeking anauthentic and enriching cultural experience.“While in town, history enthusiasts can dive deeper into Louisiana’s rich culture with a visit to the Capitol ParkMuseum, where The Louisiana Experience exhibit offers ajourney through the state’s unique traditions, including thediverse ways Mardi Gras is celebrated throughoutLouisiana.” —Forbes15Our 11th Annual Spanish Town Parade Partyreceived extensive media coverage, celebratingover a decade of bringing together diversecommunity members to enjoy local traditions.This event reinforces the museum’s role as acultural hub in Baton Rouge. Our ImmediatePast President, Chenese Lewis, joined theWAFB staff to promote our Annual Event in2025 Media Coverage for the 11th Annual Spanish Town Parade Party National Recognition in Forbes magazineAS SEEN INfaces & places: Greater Baton RougeWe are proud to share that the Friends of Capitol ParkMuseum and our President, Griffin Landry, were featured inFaces & Places of Greater Baton Rouge as the 2025 “Face ofNonprofits.” This recognition honors the progress we’ve madeunder new leadership — expanding programs, deepeningcommunity partnerships, and growing visibility throughout theCapital Region. This feature represents a bold new chapter rooted ininnovation, inclusivity, and cultural pride. We are grateful toParents Magazine for the opportunity to highlight our workand remain committed to preserving and sharing Louisiana’svibrant history.

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13These accolades and recognitions underscore our unwavering commitment to communityengagement, cultural preservation, and inclusivity. We are deeply grateful to our board,volunteers, partners, and the entire Baton Rouge community for their continued supportand contributions to our success. Thank you for helping us celebrate and preserve therich cultural heritage of our beloved city.In Summary:Board President Griffin Landry joined WAFB toshare details about our new Summer at theMuseum program. The segment highlighted ourefforts to engage families with hands-onactivities and cultural programming throughoutthe summer—making history come alive in newand exciting ways. This media coverage helpedamplify our mission and introduced theprogram to a wider Baton Rouge audience. Media Coverage for SUMMER AT THE MUSEUM the drum newspaperWe were honored to be featured in The DrumNewspaper for our 2025 Black History MonthProgram, which celebrated the powerfulcontributions of African American leaders in highereducation. This impactful event uplifted stories ofperseverance, leadership, and legacy acrossLouisiana. We’re grateful to The Drum for helpingamplify this important celebration of Blackexcellence.features in 225 magazineWe’re proud to have been featured multiple times in 225Magazine throughout the year, including being listed as #209 intheir 225 Things to Do in Baton Rouge, a spotlight on our BillyCannon: They Called Him Legend exhibit, and coverage ofFriends events in both print and digital platforms. Thesefeatures have helped shine a light on our work, elevate ourvisibility, and connect more people to the stories, programs,and culture we celebrate at the Capitol Park Museum.16

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18EVENT HIGHLIGHTSClean RestroomsFace Painting & Kids ActivitiesLocally Catered FoodCash Bar2025 Spanish town Vendors Special ThanksRaffle DonationsVIP Area (21+)Free King CakePrime Parade ViewsIn 2025, we hosted our biggest Spanish TownParade Party yet, offering guests prime paradeviews, music, food, and museum access. This annualtradition continues to grow, bringing communitytogether in celebration and support of our mission.Thank you to everyone who attends, our sponsorsand partners, our vendors, and the Baton Rougecommunity - you truly make this an unforgettableexperience!

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With Special Guest:Trinity K. BonetRuPaul’s Drag RaceSeason 6All Stars Season 6WORLD AIDS DAYRED GALAThis unforgettable evening that not only commemorates the lives affected by thisglobal pandemic but also celebrates the remarkable progress we’ve made.Join us for our 2025 Gala on December 6, 2025 at Capitol Park Museum! World AIDS Day, observed each year on December 1, is a time to remember thoselost, support those living with HIV, and raise awareness in the ongoing fight againstAIDS. This year’s theme highlights the life-saving impact of antiretroviral therapy(ART), which continues to improve quality of life for many—especially in BatonRouge, which ranked 4th nationally in HIV diagnosis rates at the time of our event.Contact Uswww.batonrougepride.org | @brpride20second annualCAPITOLPARKFRIENDS.ORGPRESENTED BY

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ABOUT THE EVENTThe Red Gala was a resounding success,dazzling attendees with live performancesby Trinity K. Bonet from RuPaul's DragRace, and staff from Kids Orchestra. Aninspiring speech from JeremyWeatherspoon, a silent auction featuringlocal artists, and a delectable array of foodand drinks from the finest localrestaurants; all hosted by the amazingLetangela Fay. The event raised significantawareness about local support andresources for people living with HIV. Withsupport from AIDS Healthcare Foundation(AHF), ViiV Healthcare, National Coalitionof 100 Black Women of Metro BatonRouge, and the Friends of the Capital ParkMuseum, Baton Rouge Pridedemonstrated a commitment to educatingthe community about HIV.The gala aimed to highlight the ongoingwork to address the needs of people livingwith HIV, particularly in Baton Rouge,which has one of the highest rates of newHIV diagnoses in the country. By comingtogether for this event, attendeesdemonstrated a collective commitment tomaking a difference and striving for aworld where an HIV diagnosis is no longerstigmatizing.Thank you to everyone who attended andcontributed to the success of the 2024Red Gala. Together, it is possible to bringhope to those affected by this globalepidemic.Save the date for the 2025 Red Gala andfollow Baton Rouge Pride's socials to stayupdated on partnership opportunities andmore information.More Informationwww.batonrougepride.orgwww.aidshealth.org21SAVE THE DATE:CAPITOL PARK MUSEUM660 N. FOURTH STREETBATON ROUGE, LA2025 GALA6DEC

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Downtown Development DistrictThe Friends of Capitol Park Museum were proud to donatea Household Membership to be included in the DowntownDevelopment District’s “Family Fun Downtown Tour”package as part of their third Neighborly Nights event onJune 26. This monthly initiative brings together the growingnumber of downtown residents to foster community in afun and welcoming environment.ymca angel tree toy driveThe Friends of the Capitol Park Museum proudly partneredwith the YMCA for the Angel Tree Toy Drive, bringing joy tochildren and families in need throughout our community.With the museum serving as a drop-off location, we collectedand donated over $500 worth of toys to support thisheartwarming cause. We extend a special thank you to theLouisiana Young Republicans for their generous donations,which played a crucial role in the drive’s success. Theirsupport helped ensure that every child received a gift and feltthe warmth of the season.Louisiana SHAKESPEARE FESTIVALthe Friends of the Capitol Park Museum partnered withthe Louisiana Shakespeare Company to support thefirst-ever Louisiana Shakespeare Festival at theMuseum. We proudly donated $500 to provide freeadmission to the museum for festival-goers, offeringguided tours that connected Louisiana’s rich historywith the timeless works of Shakespeare. This exciting new partnership helped introduce newaudiences to the museum and demonstrated the powerof collaboration between cultural institutions. We’reproud to have been part of this inaugural event and lookforward to future opportunities to bring the arts to lifein creative and accessible ways!22

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The Friends of Capitol Park Museum were proud tobe a Blue-Level Sponsor for the 2025 Baton RougePride Festival. This year’s festival, “I am a Work ofArt” featured a resource fair where the Friends had abooth to share information about the Museum andour events, free HIV testing, The Queerative Marketwith local vendors, drag queen story time, andperformances featuring local artists - with manyspecial guests! baton rouge pride 2025 festivalspirits of LouisianaThe Friends of Capitol Park Museum were proud to donatea Household Membership, valued at $100, to support theOld State Capitol’s Spirits of Louisiana event in October2024. This annual celebration brings together localresidents, history enthusiasts, and supporters from acrossthe state for an evening that highlights Louisiana’s richcultural legacy through local flavors. We were honored tocontribute to this vibrant event, helping to encouragemuseum engagement and foster deeper appreciation forour shared history.In 2024, Capitol Park Museum proudly unveiled its firstofficial gift shop, The Gallery of Gifts. Open during regularmuseum hours, this exciting new addition offers a curatedselection of Louisiana-themed merchandise, historicalkeepsakes, books, educational toys, and locally inspiredsouvenirs for all ages. Whether you're looking for theperfect memento, a thoughtful gift, or a piece of BatonRouge to take home, The Gallery of Gifts has somethingfor everyone. Stop by the store during your next visit!The gallery of gifts23

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The Friends of the Capitol Park Museum is a nonprofit organization proudly dedicated toadvancing the mission of Capitol Park Museum—preserving and sharing Louisiana’s rich historythrough education, exhibitions, and community engagement. When you become a Friend of theMuseum, you’re not just purchasing a membership—you’re investing in a cultural legacy thatbelongs to all of us.Your membership directly supports:Education & Outreach: Funding education events,free youth programs, and free public lectures.Artifact Conservation: Helping preserve and protectLouisiana’s treasured collections.Public Programming: Enabling community events,special exhibitions, and seasonal programming thatenriches lives across the region.Why Membership MattersThe Friends play a vital role in ensuring the museumremains a vibrant resource for future generations. Annualmemberships fuel our ability to deliver:World-class exhibitionsInnovative educational initiativesInclusive community partnershipsAccessible cultural programmingFree and discounted eventsNew This Year: All-Digital Memberships!BIG News! We’re proud to announce that the Friends of Capitol ParkMuseum membership is now 100% digital—the first and only in theLouisiana State Museum system!Your membership card is now available for Apple Wallet and GoogleWallet, meaning your perks and access are always at your fingertips.No more paper cards. No more delays. Just seamless, instant access.24

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Student, Senior, Educator,State Employee, Military(with ID)Young ProfessionalLevel$25.00/Annually$40.00/AnnuallyContributionOne Person, Proof of IDOne Adult, Ages 18-35Benefitsmore informationVisit www.capitolparkfriends.org/membershipStop by the museum and look for our QR codes or ask at the front desk!Email vpmembership@capitolparkfriends.org or info@capitolparkfriends.orgIndividual $50.00/AnnuallyOne AdultHousehold $100.00/AnnuallyTwo Adults and allchildren (under 18) livingat the same addressTastemaker $200.00/AnnuallyTwo Adults and allchildren (under 18) livingat the same address+2 Guest PassesStoryteller $350.00/AnnuallyTwo Adults and allchildren (under 18) livingat the same address+5 Guest PassesCultural Ambassador $500.00/AnnuallyTwo Adults and allchildren (under 18) livingat the same address+6 Guest PassesFor the full list of benefits, please visit www.capitolparkfriends.org/membershipTrent Threeton, VP of Membershipvpmembership@capitolparkfriends.orgdid you know?Your membership gets you FREE admission to Capitol Park Museum and ALLother Louisiana State Museum locations. In addition, you receive a NARMmembership for admission and discounts to museum shops at 1,000+ museumsacross the US!25

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26education conferenceOur first free education conference, taking place onSeptember 27, 2025, is themed Bayou Life: ConnectingCulture, Industry, and the Environment in Louisiana. Theevent will bring together educators, cultural leaders,students, and community members for a day of dialogue,exploration, and hands-on engagement. Through panels, exhibits, and interactive sessions, we aim toilluminate how Louisiana’s unique bayou ecosystems haveshaped its cultural identity, industries, and environmentalfuture. This conference marks a new chapter in our work tosupport lifelong learning and amplify the stories that defineour state. Reserve your spot today!the annual galaThe Friends of Capitol Park Museum are excited tobring back our signature Gala after a 10-year hiatuson Saturday, October 4, 2025. This unforgettableevening will feature live music, local cuisine, andcurated museum experiences—all in support of ourmission to preserve and promote Louisiana’s richcultural history. This year’s gala promises to be evenmore impactful than ever. Get your tickets!2025 Fall festMark your calendars for the Friends of Capitol ParkMuseum’s inaugural Fall Fest, happening Saturday,October 25, 2025, from 5 PM to 9 PM on the museumgrounds!This brand-new seasonal celebration will feature music,local food vendors, small-business and communityvendors, Fall-themed carnival games, and a Louisiana-inspired Haunted House! Families will enjoy fall-themedactivities and plenty of photo ops in our festive fall setup,so make sure to wear those costumes! Get your ticketstoday!*All events are available on eventbrite

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Events23%Education Programs23%CPM Donations19.2%Expenses17.3%Membership10.8%Donations6.7%Student, Senior, Military, State Employee, etc.47%Household25.3%Individual12.6%Tastemaker11.1%$9.8KTotal Donated toCapitol Park Museum2024-2025$5KFirst Free SundayMarch 2025-July 2025Our account is composed ofmembership fees, donations andsponsorships, and grants. From thistotal, we subtract our annual expensesand contributions to the museum. Thisfinancial structure allows us tosustainably support our programs,events, and the ongoing mission of theCapitol Park Museum.OU R FI NAN CESOur membership is diverse, offering 8 differentmembership tiers for families and individualsalike. We also offer Corporate memberships forcompanies and organizations. M E M B E R S H I P D A T ACultural Ambassador3.4%Young Professional1.0%27

FOTCPM Annual Report 2024-25

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