National Geographic’s 125 Anniversary Gala Is a Stunner


On June 13, the IQ of Washington, D.C., increased as explorers, scientists and other members and supporters of the National Geographic Society met to celebrate its 125th birthday at the National Building Museum. The great hall was rendered visually stunning with images of animals and nature projected along the second floor and on a stage screen; unique dinner tables added to the wow factor. The list of awardees was likewise stunning: explorer-filmmaker James Cameron, oceanographer Sylvia Earle, scientist Edward O. Wilson, philanthropist Howard Buffett, skydiver Felix Baumgartner and game host Alex Trebek. Cameron got the Explorer of the Year award for his Deep Sea Challenge dive and advised attendees to go vegan as the entree of bison was on its way. Trebek of “Jeopardy!” fame donated $1 million in support of the National Geographic Bee, adding to the society’s big year of fundraising: $35 million thus far.

National Geographic – 125th Anniversary Gala

Interview with Dereck and Beverly Joubert

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *