Inaugural ROM Immortal Gala Raises Over $1 Million in Support of Exhibitions and Programs

TORONTO, November 5, 2025 — The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) celebrated fashion and philanthropy at the Park Hyatt on the evening of November 4 with the ROM Immortal Gala: The Art of Fashion, raising more than $1.1 million in support of the Museum’s exhibitions and programs. 

This sold-out black-tie event marked the launch of the new annual ROM Immortal Gala series as well as the ROM Immortal Award: an annual tribute to a trailblazer whose creativity and tenacity has forever changed their field. The inaugural award was presented to Suzanne Rogers in recognition of her immeasurable contributions to the art of fashion within Canada and beyond. 

Presented by Rogers and chaired by Jenna Bitove Naumovich alongside Honorary Chair Sylvia Mantella, the gala spotlighted ROM’s remarkable department of Global Fashion and Textiles – the second largest collection in North America – through its design and décor, furthering ROM’s mission to bring people together at the intersection of art and culture.

According to Ms. Bitove Naumovich and Ms. Mantella, “Suzanne Rogers is a dedicated supporter of Canada’s fashion sector and emerging designers. This inspired pairing of a devoted fashion advocate and ROM – Canada’s pre-eminent Museum – brings attention to the role fashion can play in strengthening our cultural life, as well as Canada’s place on the global design stage.”

ROM’s collection of Global Fashion & Textiles encompasses an incredible selection of pieces representing the best examples of Parisian couture, South Korean wedding dresses, Indigenous cultural belongings, African textiles, 17th-century Japanese kimonos, Mexican embroidery, and other exceptional global accessories and pieces. Gala guests were treated to a one-night display of select examples pulled from ROM's collection of haute couture and global fashion. 

“ROM’s unique interdisciplinary approach allows us to tell stories through many different lenses – and this time, it was through the extraordinary Global Fashion & Textiles collection,” said Josh Basseches, ROM Director & CEO. “I’m delighted that this area of ROM’s focus provided such a compelling inspiration for the Gala, and has drawn together so many passionate supporters who believe in the Museum’s mission and its bright future.” 

“Over $1 million was raised through this gala in support of ROM, and I offer my deepest gratitude to everyone who helped us to achieve this excellent result,” said Janice Price, President & CEO of ROM Governors, the foundation responsible for all philanthropic activity in support of the Museum. “Thank you to the gala’s Presenting Sponsor Rogers; the event’s Chairs; and its many partners, supporters, and guests – you have each played a role in ensuring the ongoing vitality of Canada's leading museum.” 

The evening was hosted by esteemed Canadian television journalist Lisa LaFlamme, who introduced designer Kirk Pickersgill – of celebrated Canadian fashion house Greta Constantine – to present the ROM Immortal Award to Suzanne Rogers. 

A tribute video directed by filmmaker Barry Avrich celebrated Ms. Rogers’ dedicated support of Canada’s fashion industry and her related philanthropic efforts. Deeply passionate about issues related to children’s welfare in Canada and beyond, through the spectacular “Suzanne Rogers Presents” series, Ms. Rogers combines the worlds of fashion and philanthropy to raise funds to enrich the lives of children and strengthen communities across the country.

“I’m truly honoured to be the inaugural recipient of the ROM Immortal Award. Supporting Canadian fashion has always been close to my heart, and to be recognized in this way is both humbling and deeply meaningful,” said Suzanne Rogers. “I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the incredible talent that exists in this country, and I remain committed to helping our designers shine. This recognition only strengthens my belief in the power of philanthropy to elevate Canadian creativity.” 

Plans for next year’s ROM Immortal Gala are already underway and will be released at a later date. 

“The funds raised from this Gala provide important support to ROM’s many programs and exhibitions that attract more than one million visitors every year, and we look forward to building upon its momentum,” Janice Price said. “Stay tuned for the unveiling of the ROM Immortal Gala’s theme and award recipient for 2026.”

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For more information: media@rom.on.ca