Museum of Science and Industry changing name after $125M gift from Ken Griffin

The Museum of Science and Industry on Thursday announced a gift of $125 million from hedge fund manager Ken Griffin. It’s the largest gift in museum history, and the museum is naming itself after Griffin as a result. | James Foster / Sun-Times

The Museum of Science and Industry will now be called the Kenneth C. Griffin Museum of Science and Industry following a donation of $125 million from the Chicago billionaire.

It’s the largest single gift in the history of the museum, which opened in 1933.

“This incredibly generous gift helps ensure MSI remains a vital resource for science learning well into the 21st century,” the museum announced on its website.

It explained that renaming the museum “was the most appropriate way to convey our gratitude for this gift.”

The museum also insisted its mission will not change as a result of the donation, part of which will go toward a new “Pixel Studio,” which it called “a state-of-the-art digital gallery and performance space that will be the only experience of its kind in North America..

“The purpose of this gift is to allow us to continue the great work we do in support of our mission and vision,” the museum’s statement said.

“MSI’s mission will remain the same as it has always been: to inspire the inventive genius in everyone, and we are grateful for this gift, which will help ensure the Museum remains a vital resource for science learning well into the 21st century.”

Private support for the museum in 2018 totaled $19 million, up $3 million from the previous year.

Chicago billionaire Ken Griffin is shown in April 2018 discussing his $10 million donation to reduce gun violence in the city. Also there were Mayor Rahm Emanuel (right) and Chicago Police Supt. Eddie Johnson (left).