The ExPIERience Gala will be bigger than ever as Navy Pier honors steadfast Board Member and Immediate Past Board Chair, Jennifer Steans. As a member of the Board of Directors since 2015 and Chair from 2023–2025, Jennifer has championed a vision of the Pier as a welcoming, inclusive, and community-centered destination. Her leadership has helped shape transformative initiatives, foster meaningful partnerships, and deepen the Pier’s impact and reflection across Chicago’s neighborhoods.
We are thrilled to also honor U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin. As he concludes a remarkable career in public service, Senator Dick Durbin is recognized as one of Illinois’ most influential leaders and steadfast champions of civic institutions. Throughout his decades in Congress, he has helped secure investments that strengthen communities, expand opportunity, and support the cultural, educational, and economic vitality of Illinois. A longtime advocate for Navy Pier, Senator Durbin has supported the Pier through federal leadership and investment, recognizing its role as both a treasured public space and a driver of economic activity, tourism, and community engagement. His enduring commitment to public service has left a lasting mark on Illinois and helped create opportunities that will benefit generations to come.
The ExPIERience Gala will also highlight the makers, artists and entrepreneurs who fuel Chicago’s vibrant creative spirit.
2026 ExPIERience Co-Chairs:
Laura and Craig Martin
Honoring:
Jennifer W. Steans
and
U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin
If possible, kindly consider check or wire transfer payments for gifts of $5,000+
Event Contact: Molly McDonald
Please send payments to:
The ExPIERience Gala
c/o: PJH & Associates, Inc.
70 West Madison Street
Suite 200
Chicago, IL 60602
About Navy Pier
Navy Pier is the People’s Pier, Chicago’s iconic lakefront destination where culture, community, and celebration come together. Welcoming more than 8 million guests annually, the Pier offers free and engaging arts and cultural programming, public events, the nation’s #1 fireworks display, outdoor recreation, dining, shopping, cruises, and year-round experiences that reflect the energy and diversity of Chicago.
Operated by Navy Pier, Inc., a nonprofit organization, the Pier serves as both a beloved public space and an economic engine for the region. Through dynamic partnerships with artists, cultural institutions, and community organizations, Navy Pier creates accessible experiences that inspire discovery, connection, wonder, and fun for guests from across Chicago and around the world.
Funds raised through The ExPIERience Gala support Navy Pier’s free public programs, cultural partnerships, community initiatives, and small business development efforts that amplify Chicago’s artists, neighborhoods, entrepreneurs, and creative voices while ensuring the Pier remains welcoming and accessible for all.