Leave A Legacy

The Carnell Circle, established in 1995, takes its name from Julia Shaw Patterson Carnell, who understood that the Dayton Art Institute would continue to grow and prosper through the support and gifts of many loyal friends. When the Carnell Circle was established, there were 21 charter members. As of today, the Carnell Circle membership includes 144 members, representing known gifts of more than $12.8 million dollars. These loyal friends who have made a planned gift to the museum will continue Mrs. Shaw Patterson Carnell’s legacy and continue to inspire others to give, just as her first gift did. Through each special gift, you are ensuring that in future years countless members and visitors will enjoy and be enriched by the Dayton Art Institute.

As a Carnell Circle member, your name will be included on the Carnell Circle Commemorative Plaque, located in the museum’s Great Hall. Members of the Carnell Circle also receive a unique museum gift, invitations to special events and programs throughout the year, including the annual donor luncheon, and an opportunity to meet other individuals with a common interest in the future of the museum.