BP becomes museum’s newest corporate partner

Submitted by Kerynn Fisher
Phone: 907-474-6941
04/01/08

BP recently became the University of Alaska Museum of the North’s newest corporate partner with a $25,000 donation to the museum. The North Slope producer will serve as the lead partner for the museum’s annual open house.

"BP is committed to supporting Alaska’s communities," says Carla Beam, BP Alaska director of community affairs. "The museum’s exhibits and programs enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors. We hope the access to the museum’s research labs during the open house will inspire a new generation of scientists."

The museum’s annual open house brings visitors into the museum’s research labs and other areas not usually open to the public. The event attracts nearly 1,000 visitors in a typical year, primarily families, and also includes free admission to the museum’s exhibit galleries, hands-on activities in the education center and demonstrations by Alaska Native artists.

Support from corporate partners like BP provides a critical funding source for the museum, which receives less than 25 percent of its funding from the state. In addition to supporting the museum’s research and education programs, corporate partnerships allow the museum to offer free or reduced admission for special events and programs.

"We’re grateful to BP for their generosity," says museum development director Julie Estey. "Private support is key to the museum’s continued success. Partnerships like this help make the museum more accessible to the community."

CONTACT: University of Alaska Museum of the North development director Julie Estey at 907-474-6443 or BP Alaska director of community affairs Carla Beam at 907-743-4276.