Members - $125 per person; Non-Members - $150 per person*

Join us in watching the 151st running of the Kentucky Derby while indulging in an evening of betting, bourbon, dining, and live music—all in support of the Museum’s exhibitions, educational programs, and free admission for the community!

This year, we are proud to honor Mason and Mary Lu Lampton for their extraordinary contributions to the arts in Columbus. From Mason’s leadership in founding Steeplechase for the Arts to Mary Lu’s dedicated service on the Museum’s board, their commitment to supporting local culture has left a lasting impact.

Fundraiser festivities will begin at 5:30 PM with pre-race activities, betting, and special bourbons to set the mood for an exciting evening. Guests will gather to watch the live Kentucky Derby race, a thrilling centerpiece of the event. Afterward, the night will continue with dancing and live music, all complemented by a gourmet menu from EPIC crafted by renowned regional chef Jamie Keating! The event is co-chaired by Elizabeth Cliatt and Landy Cartledge of Highland Galerie, bringing their passion for the arts to this exciting night.

*Non-member ticket price includes one annual Individual Level Museum Membership. Membership offers unique benefits that enrich your Museum experience including:

• Invitations to exclusive members-only exhibition openings, member events, and Museum trips
• Complimentary or special rates for programs, events, and classes
• Early registration for select programs and classes, including summer camps
• FREE admission to over 200 museums in the Southeastern United States through SERM (the Southeastern Reciprocal Membership Program)
• 10% off in the Museum Shop

 

ABOUT THE HONOREES

Mason Houghland Lampton and his wife, Mary Lu Hardaway Lampton, have been pillars of the Columbus community for decades, each contributing uniquely to the greater Columbus community. Mason’s vision for an elegant day of horseracing that celebrates Columbus led to the creation of the Steeplechase at Callaway. For more than forty years, funds raised for the Steeplechase have benefited local arts and become the largest and most unique event in our area. Race Day proceeds directly support numerous local arts organizations, enriching lives and fostering artistic growth in our community. Mary Lu Lampton has dedicated countless hours to advocating for the Museum’s mission. As a past president and long-standing member of the COMU Board of Directors, her leadership has been instrumental in advancing key initiatives, including the Museum’s annual fundraisers and its recent renovation and reimagining. Together, the Lampton's steadfast and generous support of Columbus’ cultural institutions underscores their dedication to ensuring the arts continue to thrive in our region, making them truly fitting honorees for this year’s fundraiser.

ABOUT THE CO-CHAIRS

This year’s event is co-chaired by Columbus natives Elizabeth Cliatt and Landy Cartledge, the dynamic sister duo behind Highland Galerie. Both are passionate advocates for the arts, bringing their creativity and expertise to ensure this fundraiser is a night to remember. As descendants of W.C. Bradley and great-granddaughters of Sarah Louise “Weezie” Butler—one of Columbus’s influential cultural leaders and a key patron of The Columbus Museum’s 1989 renovation—they continue a proud family legacy of supporting the arts in Columbus. Highland Galerie, located in the heart of Columbus, is a purpose-driven gallery that showcases a diverse range of contemporary art local to Columbus and fosters connections between artists and the community. Under their leadership, the gallery has become a hub for artistic innovation and cultural dialogue, making their involvement in this year’s fundraiser a natural extension of their dedication to the arts.

LAMPTON BRONZE SPONSOR

TRIFECTA SPONSOR