On September 14th we gathered on Main Street for our annual Gala fundraiser. This year’s event was a night to ignite the arts! It was wonderful celebrating with so many Academy Members and supporters for what was truly an unforgettable evening, where we came together to pave the way for a brighter, more vibrant future for everyone in our community. In total, we raised over $200,000 to help support the Academy’s access programs and operations. Thank you, Academy donors!

In 2025, the Academy celebrates 120 years since the opening of the now-Historic Academy Theatre. Our continuous efforts to provide artistic connection, engagement, and fulfillment wouldn’t be possible without support from the many donors who continue to help ensure the arts remain a vibrant and integral part of our community.

A big thank you to our 2024 Gala Sponsors for your support this year! Charlie & Mary Jane Pryor, Delta Star, Inc., Financial Designs , Foster Fuels, Inc., Framatome, Jamerson-Lewis Construction, Inc., Lynchburg Aesthetics & Wellness, Moore & Giles, Pat Merryman, Randolph College, Runk and Pratt, Scott Insurance, BWX Technologies, Inc., CAPTRUST, Centra Health, Ula and Alan Kauppi, Watts Petroleum Corp, Lynchburg Regional Airport, Lucas and Maria Hayden, Schewels Home, Anne and Rodger Fauber, Dodson Brothers Pest Control, Dr. Pattie McCue, Drs. Stephanie and Bob Sullivan, Leslie and Kimball Payne, Melanie and Lynch Christian, Nancy and Bill Kershner, Robin and Rick Loving, PLDR Law, The Virginian Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton.