McAllen, TX – The International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) is proud to announce the 46th Annual Collage Gala, the museum’s premier black-tie fundraiser, taking place on Saturday, September 6, 2025. This year, IMAS will honor John Sharp, Retiring Chancellor of the Texas A&M University System, in recognition of his outstanding leadership and impact on education and public service throughout the Rio Grande Valley.
“The Rio Grande Valley is a place we’re proud to call home, and IMAS represents the heart of what makes it special,” said J. Edgar Ruiz II, Chair of the 2025 IMAS Collage Gala. “Honoring Chancellor John Sharp is a way to celebrate someone who has consistently invested in our region and helped shape its future.”
“Chancellor Sharp’s impact is visible throughout the Valley from higher education to agriculture, to economic development,” added Norma Flores-Ruiz, Chair. “We’re thrilled to help recognize his legacy while giving back to a museum that continues to educate, inspire, and uplift our local community.”
The 46th Annual Collage Gala is chaired by J. Edgar Ruiz II and Norma Flores-Ruiz, with Co-Chairs Ernie and Debbie Aliseda. Together with a passionate committee of community leaders, they are organizing a memorable evening in celebration of the IMAS mission and the achievements of Chancellor Sharp.
Guests pictured at the 45th Annual Collage Gala at the International Museum of Art & Science. The 46th Annual Gala will be held this fall, continuing the tradition of celebrating art, science and community. Photo by Jay Caballero.
“The Collage Gala is our signature annual fundraising event raising essential operating funds that directly support IMAS education and exhibit programs,” states Ann Fortescue, IMAS Executive Director. “We are incredibly grateful for the dedication of our Gala Chairs and community volunteers who make this celebration of art, science, and leadership possible.”
This year’s elegant event will feature dinner, drinks, live and silent auctions, and an after-party in the art galleries. The silent auction will launch online in early September at https://theimasonline.org/collage/auction and will conclude during the gala on September 6.
The priority deadline for sponsorship commitments is June 20, 2025. Early participation ensures full recognition in gala materials and media outreach. For sponsorship or ticket inquiries, please contact IMAS at jmartinez@theimasonline.com or 956-681-2805.
Funds raised at Collage enable the IMAS to serve over 30,000 school-aged children annually through impactful programs such as Operation Imagination Summer Camp, art and science workshops, the Homeschool Science Fair, and cultural celebrations like Día de los Muertos and the Lunar New Year Festival.
Follow Collage updates at https://theimasonline.org/collage/ and IMAS on social media for the latest news about the 46th Annual Collage Gala.
