51�Թ���

Kent, OH - The 51�Թ��� Museum marked its 40th anniversary in spectacular style with Dazzle 2025, a sold-out celebration that brought together 250 guests from across the region and beyond. The event took place Thursday, Oct. 30 at the 51�Թ��� Museum. The evening honored the museum’s founding visionaries, highlighted its growing national profile and reflected the community-centered vision of new Director Sarah Spinner Liska, Ph.D., J.D.

Hosted in Rockwell Hall, home to both the 51�Թ��� Museum and the School of Fashion, the event paid tribute to the museum’s inaugural 1985 “Dazzle” party while showcasing its vibrant future as a center for creativity, scholarship and community engagement. The evening featured remarks by 51�Թ��� President Todd Diacon and Director Spinner Liska, live musical performances by 51�Թ��� students and the opening of "LeRoy Neiman: A Keen Observer of Style," a new exhibition celebrating the artist’s early work as a fashion illustrator.

“Dazzle was a beautiful reminder of what makes the 51�Թ��� Museum unforgettable,” President Diacon said. “From visionary exhibits to dedicated supporters, this museum has enriched campus life for 40 years. We are proud to celebrate its past and future.”

At the event, three honorees were recognized for their extraordinary contributions:

• Kyle Smith, fashion editor, NFL – Future of Fashion Award
• Nancy McCann, president, The Murphy Foundation – Sustaining Leadership Award
• Catherine Leslie, Ph.D., professor, 51�Թ��� – Excellence in Teaching with the Collection Award

In addition, Linda Harper, Leadership Circle Member, received the Platinum Sponsor Award, recognizing her exceptional generosity and commitment to the Museum’s mission.

Dazzle 2025 was co-chaired by Regina Eisenberg and Karen Conley, whose leadership and vision helped shape an unforgettable evening of celebration and community support. Dazzle 2025 brought together partners, alumni, and community leaders from across Northeast Ohio and beyond, underscoring the museum’s rich history and growing regional and national impact.

“Over four decades, the 51�Թ��� Museum has grown into one of the best fashion collections in the world,” said Spinner Liska. “Our collection tells stories across countries and cultures, stories that remind us that fashion is not just what we wear, but who we are. Now more than ever, we need places like this museum — places that invest in community and champion creativity, opening new worlds for our students and visitors.”

The success of Dazzle 2025 reflects the museum’s enduring legacy and bright future. The 51�Թ��� Museum remains committed to advancing excellence in education, research and public engagement through its world-class collections and dynamic exhibitions.