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.


The Museum of Latin American Art is proud to honor MIA Art Collection for its outstanding partnership and unwavering commitment to advancing Latin American art and culture. Since 2025, our collaboration has flourished through landmark initiatives, beginning with the presentation of HERLAND in Dubai. In April 2026, our shared vision was further strengthened through a formal collaborative agreement signed during ARCO Madrid, paving the way for this year's joint exhibition at MOLAA. By presenting works that complement areas not represented in MOLAA's permanent collection, MIA Art Collection has expanded opportunities for scholarship, cultural exchange, and public engagement. Their steadfast support of MOLAA's mission and long-term vision makes this recognition both meaningful and well deserved.


2026 Gala & Auction Committee

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

José Antonio Aguirre
Joy Brathwaite
Herlinda Chico
Andrew Demming
Mildred García, Ph.D.
Steve Goodling
John Kaisler
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
TGIS Catering 

Champion Sponsors ($15,000)

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

Builder Sponsor ($10,000)

José Antonio Aguirre
Herlinda Chico
Gardiner & Theobald, Inc.
Barbara & Zach Horowitz
Long Beach Airport
Sunstone
Vice Mayor Roberto Uranga, City of Long Beach

Patron Sponsor ($7,500)

Long Beach City College
Visit Long Beach
Nina Richardson, Ph.D.

Ambassador Sponsors ($5,000)

Bank of America
Joy Braithwaite
Marylyn Ginsburg
Hyundai Motor America
Verizon

In-Kind Supporters

Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo - CIFO Award Artists’ Table
Buro Happold - Fresh Flowers
Vicente Ortiz - Tequila

DONORS

Gay & Tim Degani
Lisa Milton
Rendija Fija, LLC
Mary Sophiea, Baja Sonora
Paula Rose Wihongi