Dr. Sian Proctor at the 35th annual Frontiers of Flight gala. Photo courtesy of Shana Anderson.
The Frontiers of Flight held their gala earlier this month which doubled as the 35th anniversary of the museum and introduced its new era: DESTINATION: Frontiers.
The gala celebrated the museum’s history and plans for the future on Oct 7. Attendees heard from the museum’s CEO Abigail Erickson-Torres, community builder and leader Toni Brinker and guest speaker Dr. Sian Proctor, the first black woman to pilot a spacecraft. The night also saw music from Ricki Derek & Band. The new initiative focuses on three pillars: the guest experience, the exhibits and historical preservation and aerospace-STEM educational programs. These changes will focus on diversity and inclusion in exhibits, including a new permanent exhibition that emphasizes the history of women in Aerospace.
“Today, we stand at the threshold of a new thrilling chapter in the story of the Frontiers of Flight Museum,” the museum’s CEO, Abigail Erickson-Torres, said. “It represents a revitalization—a renaissance, if you will—of our beloved museum; a place where community, culture, and exploration converge to create unforgettable experiences for all those who visit.”
The Frontiers of Flight Museum has a deep connection with Dallas Love Field and also has continued to draw tourists, aviators, history buffs and families.
“The City of Dallas is vibrant,” Erickson-Torres said. “We see it as a modern hub for fashion, entrepreneurialism, business, philanthropy, tourism, the arts; and it has a wonderful park and trail system, legendary cowboys, and ranchers, and, of course, a thriving aerospace community.”
