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Kent, OH — The ������ 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, in the Rockwell Hall Atrium at the ������ Museum. The evening honored the museum’s founding visionaries, highlighted its growing national profile and reflected the ambitious vision of new Director Sarah Spinner Liska, J.D., Ph.D.

Hosted in Rockwell Hall, home to both the ������ 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 ������ President Todd Diacon and Director Spinner Liska, live musical performances by ������ 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 ������ Museum unforgettable," said President Diacon. "From visionary exhibits to dedicated supporters, this museum has enriched campus life for 40 years. 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
• Professor Catherine Leslie, ������ – Excellence in Teaching with the Collection Award

With partners, alumni and community leaders from organizations across Northeast Ohio and beyond in attendance, Dazzle 2025 underscored the museum’s rich history, growing visibility and impact, both regionally and nationally.

“For four decades, the ������ Museum has grown one of the best fashion collections in the world,” said Sarah Spinner Liska, director of the ������ Museum. “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 ������ Museum continues to advance excellence in education, research and public engagement through its world-class collections and dynamic exhibitions.