The Gala is the most important fundraiser for MOLAA where we honor individuals and organizations who have made significant contributions to the arts & culture. This event raises funds for arts and exhibition programs at MOLAA. The evening will feature a reception and cocktail hour, sit-down dinner, silent auction, and live auction, and concludes with a live musical performance that will make it an unforgettable night.

MOLAA is the first and only museum in the United States dedicated to the preservation, exhibition, and promotion of modern and contemporary Latin American, Chicano/a/x, and Latino/a/x art. By supporting MOLAA, you are supporting the representation and visibility of diverse cultures and perspectives in the art world, which is crucial for fostering inclusivity and understanding.

 

Saturday, October 3, 2026

Reception: 6:00 PM | Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA)

Gala Dinner and Live Auction

Dress Code: Black Tie,
Royal Blue & Gold colors suggested

Hosted by

Robert Braun and Kiki Lizarraga
2026 MOLAA Gala Co-Chairs

The MOLAA Board of Directors

Lourdes I. Ramos, Ph.D., President & CEO


HONOREES

Tanya Capriles de Brillembourg

LEGADO AWARD: Philanthropy in the Arts

Tanya Capriles de Brillembourg exemplifies the spirit of the LEGADO Award through a lifetime of visionary philanthropy that places art at the center of social impact. Her work bridges cultural patronage and humanitarian action—bringing arts education, creative expression, and healing opportunities to underserved communities, including children facing illness and social exclusion.

Beyond her philanthropic initiatives, she has significantly elevated the visibility and appreciation of Latin American art globally through her collection, exhibitions, and support of cultural institutions. By championing artists, investing in cultural infrastructure, and expanding access to the arts across borders, she has created a lasting legacy that aligns directly with MOLAA’s mission and values.

Her impact is not only measured in collections or institutions, but in lives transformed through access to art—making her a powerful and deserving recipient of the LEGADO Award for Philanthropy in the Arts.


EDWARD JAMES OLMOS

LEGADO AWARD: Lifetime Achievement

Edward James Olmos is an internationally acclaimed actor, director, and producer whose career has profoundly shaped the representation of Latino communities in film, television, and culture. From his Academy Award–nominated performance in Stand and Deliver to iconic roles in Battlestar Galactica and Blade Runner, Olmos has consistently elevated complex Latino narratives in mainstream media. Beyond the screen, he is a lifelong advocate for arts education, social justice, and youth empowerment, supporting cultural institutions and community initiatives nationwide. Through decades of artistic excellence and cultural leadership, Olmos has expanded opportunities for Latino storytellers and audiences alike, embodying the enduring impact honored by MOLAA’s LEGADO Lifetime Achievement Award.


US Congressman Robert García

LEGADO AWARD: Leadership Achievement

Congressman Robert Garcia is a nationally recognized public leader whose career reflects a deep commitment to civic engagement, cultural inclusion, and community advancement. A former Mayor of Long Beach and current U.S. Representative for California’s 42nd Congressional District, Garcia has championed equitable housing, education, environmental responsibility, and government accountability. As the first openly LGBTQ immigrant elected to Congress, he embodies the transformative impact of immigrant leadership in the United States. Through his advocacy for working families, international collaboration, and cultural initiatives—including support for the arts and popular culture—Congressman Garcia advances values that resonate with MOLAA’s mission, making him a deserving recipient of the LEGADO Leadership Award.


MIA Art Collection

2026 Gala Special Recognition: International Partner

MIA Art Collection will receive special recognition during the 2026 MOLAA Gala & Auction as a valued international allied institution. Founded by philanthropist and collector Alejandra Castro Rioseco, MIA Art Collection is a global private collection dedicated to increasing the visibility, recognition, and representation of women artists. Through exhibitions, educational initiatives, cultural exchange, and partnerships with museums and art institutions worldwide, MIA champions women’s artistic voices and promotes greater gender equity in the arts.

MIA and MOLAA’s partnership reflects the power of international collaboration between institutions with distinct yet complementary missions. The relationship was highlighted through the collaborative HERLAND exhibition in Dubai in 2025 and continues in 2026 with a new exhibition presented at MOLAA in Long Beach. This special recognition celebrates MIA Art Collection’s important global mission and its commitment to building meaningful partnerships that expand access, dialogue, and opportunities for women artists across borders.


2026 Gala & Auction Committee

Hon. Rex Richardson, Honorary C

Robert Braun, MD, Co-Chair
Kiki Lizarraga, Co-Chair

José Antonio Aguirre
Joy Brathwaite
Hon. Herlinda Chico
Andrew Demming
Mildred García, Ph.D.
Steve Goodling
John Keisler
Hon. Bonnie Lowenthal
Mike Muñoz, Ph.D.
Lourdes I. Ramos, Ph.D.
Nina Richardson, Ph.D.
Sofia Riley
Carlos Alejandro Soberanis Toledo
Vice Mayor Roberto Uranga
Tonia Uranga

2026 MOLAA Board of Directors

Robert N. Braun, M.D., Co-Chair
Mike Deovlet, Co-Chair

Sofia Riley, Vice Chairperson
Zach Horowitz, Secretary
Tim Degani, Treasurer

Tiffany L. Barbara
Celia S. de Birbragher
Cástulo de la Rocha
Marianne Gastelum
Burke Gumbiner
Kiki Lizárraga
Lisa Milton
Lynne Okon Scholnick
Mark Taylor
Paula-Rose Wihongi

DOCENT GUILD CHAIR

Rebecca Jurado
Lita Jacoste


SPONSORS

Special thanks to the many individuals, businesses, and artists who contributed to the evening’s success!

Visionary Sponsor ($25,000)

Robert Gumbiner Foundation
Tanya Capriles de Brillembourg
TGIS Catering 

Champion Sponsors ($15,000)

AltaMed
Robert N. Braun, M.D. & Joan A. Friedman, Ph.D.
TELACU Industries, Inc.

Builder Sponsor ($10,000)

José Antonio Aguirre
BNB Builder
California State University Foundation
Celeste Ayllene Carr
Long Beach Convention Center
Herlinda Chico
Barbara & Zach Horowitz
Port of Long Beach
Sunstone
Vice Mayor Roberto Uranga, City of Long Beach

Benefactor Sponsor ($8,500)

Somos Group

Patron Sponsor ($7,500)

Adamson & Associates
Cordoba Corporation
Long Beach City College
Visit Long Beach
Nina Richardson, Ph.D.
Water Replenishment District

Ambassador Sponsors ($5,000)

A Plus Bank
Bank of America
Marylyn Ginsburg
Hyundai Motor America
St. Mary Medical Center Foundation
Verizon

In-Kind Supporters

Lauren Glen Vineyard - Alicia Miñana and Rob Lovelace 
Tequila Cimarron - Tequila
TGIS

UNDERWRITTERS

Eva Longoria Foundation
Gardiner & Theobald
Hilton Long Beach

DONORS

Gay & Tim Degani
Mount Saint Mary’s University
LA County Supervisor Janice Hahn