FIRST® and i.am/Angel foundation are proud to announce their collaboration spotlighting the vital role that STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education plays in today’s youth, preparing them for a brighter future. This exciting partnership will be on display at a spectacular fundraising gala co-hosted by will.i.am, founder of the i.am/Angel Foundation, and Dean Kamen, founder of FIRST. The event will take place at the Loews Miami Beach Hotel on Wednesday, December 6, coinciding with the renowned Art Basel Miami.
"This year's gala honors the outstanding work that students are doing in FIRST and highlights the critical need to get more students involved in these life-changing programs,” Kamen said. “We’re excited to showcase the connection between STEM and the arts, celebrating the intrinsic interconnectedness of these disciplines."
Will.i.am with i.am Angel Foundation
The SoBe gala promises to be a night to remember, kicking off with a star-studded red carpet as guests arrive for an exhilarating robotics-inspired cocktail hour, where guests are invited to test-drive robots. The evening will feature a captivating silent auction, showcasing luxury, beauty, sports, and entertainment items.
Will.i.am, US Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona, Dean Kamen
Following the cocktail hour, attendees will savor a delectable, seated dinner and be treated to compelling content, headlined by will.i.am and Dean Kamen, engaging in an on-stage fireside chat about the current state of STEM education for young people, and its impact on our future.
FIRST Robotics
In a special tribute, the gala will recognize Ursula Burns for her unwavering commitment toFIRST. Beyond her continued support as a Board Member since 2000, Burns has graciously shared her time with students at FIRST events and as a mentor to FIRST Alumni in their careers. She brings extensive international experience, having led large companies through technological transformations within their industries. From 2009 to 2016, she served as the CEO of Xerox Corporation, where she also held the position of Chairman of the Board from 2010 to 2017. Under her leadership, Xerox evolved from a global leader in document technology into the world's most diversified business services company, serving enterprises and governments of all sizes.
To purchase Gala tickets, visit firstinspires.org/gala . For more information on the gala, contact gala@firstinspires.org or call 603.206.6000