The San Diego Automotive Museum’s sold-out “Party in the Park” transformed Balboa Park into a night of elegance, excitement, and celebration. Inspired by the thrill of the Grand Prix, more than 400 guests came together to raise over $850,000 in support of the Museum’s growth and education initiatives.
Co-Chairs Jill Berg, Reena Horowitz and Tess Mauricio welcomed guests that were captivated by the premiere exhibit, “Street to Track: The Evolution of Speed,” which showcased a striking collection of exotic Ferraris hand-selected by curator Jacqueline Goldstein. The evening also paid tribute to Dr. Steve and Lynne Wheeler, whose leadership, generosity, and passion for community continue to drive the Museum forward. The Museum also honored Ernest Rady, Ray Brock, and Paula Abdul with Titan of Philanthropy Awards for their enduring generosity and community impact.
A Vision for the Future
The year 2025 marked a pivotal milestone for the San Diego Automotive Museum – a renewed vision for its future. Earlier this year, the Board of Directors adopted a new mission to unite San Diego’s car culture and spark passion through the power and legacy of the automotive world. Anchored by a vision to become a world-class destination recognized for education and community engagement, and guided by its core values of Integrity, Passion, and Community, these principles now fuel every exhibit, program, and partnership.
IGNITE Academy
At the heart of this transformation is IGNITE Academy – a program that does not just teach about cars but changes lives through them. Designed to Inspire, Guide, Network, Intern, Train, and Educate, IGNITE gives young people more than hands-on experience – it gives them direction, confidence, and a future in the automotive world. Through partnerships with industry leaders, students gain real-world skills, mentorship, and opportunities that turn passion into profession and curiosity into career. One success story is Grant Townsend, who began as a part-time technician with an IGNITE partner while pursuing an Automotive Technology degree. Reflecting on his experience, Grant shared with GB Magazine, “IGNITE has impacted me in more ways than I thought possible. It got me my first job in the industry I have dreamed of, led to new connections, and completely changed the course of my life.” Grant represents the next generation of skilled technicians inspired by the Museum’s commitment to education and opportunity.
Looking Ahead
The San Diego Automotive Museum’s momentum is powered by a generous community that believes in its mission. Beyond supporting IGNITE, donors can leave a lasting legacy through naming opportunities within the Museum’s planned expansion and the new IGNITE Santee Campus.
Save the date—September 26, 2026—for the sixth annual Party in the Park, an unforgettable evening of celebration, innovation, and vision. To reserve your seat or inquire about sponsorships, contact Rosa Valenzuela at (619) 231-2886 or visit www.SDAutoMuseum.org.
