Sam’s Club CEO Kath McLay to chair Amazeum fundraiser

The Scott Family Amazeum recently announced the honorary chairman of its sixth annual fundraiser is Sam’s Club CEO Kath McLay. The UnGala fundraiser will take place from 6 to 10 p.m. on April 21 at the Amazeum in Bentonville.

According to a news release, this is the first year the chairman is a woman business leader from Northwest Arkansas. It’s also the first partnership between the Amazeum and Sam’s Club employees. Since opening in 2015, the Amazeum has provided guests of all ages with hands-on experiences and activities in science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM).

According to the release, the UnGala helps the Amazeum keep admission costs low and to host Priceless Nights, which is when admission is free. The fundraiser also supports professional development opportunities for area educators and off-site programs providing STEAM learning through interactive discovery and playful exploration.

The UnGala is presented by Nabholz and is open to those who are at least 21 years old. The event will include multiple hands-on activities, such as screen printing, pewter casting and 24-volt vehicle

racing. Also available will be alcoholic beverages and a food truck buffet.

Holland Hayden, senior marketing and communications manager for the Amazeum, said McLay and Sam Dean, executive director of the Amazeum, will speak at the event. Topics include the Amazeum’s impact on Northwest Arkansas, specifically focusing on STEAM programs, creativity and curiosity, and how this promotes good business practices.

Excluding 2020, the UnGala has been hosted annually since 2017. More than 250 people attended the event last year and raised over $85,000. The goal is $100,000 this year. Emcees will be Jason Suel and Jaclyn House, co-hosts of KNWA-TV lifestyle show “Good Day NWA.”

April 20 is the deadline to purchase tickets, but tickets will be available at the door. Tickets are $125 and are available online at this link.