University of Utah|Arts

GSLC 30th Anniversary Gala - A Fundraising Concert to Support the Future of Free Science Education and Honor Dr. Louisa Stark with Utah Medical Orchestra Performance

Saturday, May 23, 2026, 5 – 9pm

The University of Utah’s Genetic Science Learning Center (GSLC) will host a public fundraising concert on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at Libby Gardner Concert Hall to support and expand the free science education resources it provides to millions of students, teachers, and lifelong learners.
The 7 p.m. concert will feature the Utah Medical Orchestra performing original compositions from the Center’s popular multimedia science education materials, along with distinguished speakers and special musical guests. Before the concert, attendees can enjoy a 5 p.m. reception featuring engaging hands-on science experiences and a science art exhibit.
The event will also honor the retirement of longtime director Dr. Louisa Stark, whose leadership helped shape the Center’s far-reaching impact in science education. It will also formally announce the Center’s new name — The Stark Science Learning Center (SSLC) — in recognition of Dr. Stark’s extraordinary contributions to the Center.
Tickets are now available at sslc.utah.edu….
“The legacy of the GSLC—now SSLC—is one of excellence in science education. Tonight we honor SSLC’s 30-year impact on science education and science literacy, as well as honor Dr. Louisa Stark’s extraordinary career. This gala is a tribute to SSLC’s history and an investment in its future. Thank you for joining us in celebrating together."
-Rachel Hess, MD, associate vice president for research, University of Utah Health Sciences
Event Details
Date: Saturday, May 23, 2026
Location: Libby Gardner Concert Hall, 1375 President’s Circle, Salt Lake City, Utah
Reception: 5 p.m. (hands-on science activities and science art exhibit)
Program: 7 p.m. (concert and speakers)
Admission:
$35 General Admission
$20 Students and ages 18 and under (no children under 5 admitted)
$100–$500 VIP and group seating available
Tickets: sslc.utah.edu…
Founded at the University of Utah, the GSLC, recently renamed, Stark Science Learning Center (SSLC), is widely recognized for its commitment to high-quality, research-based science education. Its flagship platform, Learn.Genetics, reaches millions of learners each year and is one of the most widely used resources for teaching science and health in classrooms worldwide. In addition to serving learners worldwide, the Center also provides valuable science communication tools to researchers, clinicians, and partners both at the university and beyond. The event reflects the Center’s distinctive role in advancing public understanding of science while fostering collaboration among educators, scientists, artists, and health professionals.

Event Categories: Music
Campus Locations: Libby Gardner Concert Hall (DGH)
Cost: $35 General Admission; $20 Students and ages 18 and under (no children under 5 admitted); $100–$500 VIP and group seating available
Ticket URL: sslc.utah.edu…
Campus Wide Event: Yes

Once Upon an Art Museum

Wednesday, June 3, 2026, 11 – 11:30am

Looking for a free family activity in Salt Lake City? Admission to the Utah Museum of Fine Arts is always free every first Wednesday of the month, and now the day is extra special. Bring your youngest art appreciators to the UMFA for storytime, fine art, and hands-on activities in the galleries!

Gather in the Museum lobby and follow arts educators into the galleries to explore unique works of art, read a story, and create a simple, kid-friendly art project inspired by the art on view and the story! There will be new stories and activities every month, so we hope you’ll join us for a new “once upon a time” every first Wednesday.

H. Jerome Epstein, Young boy reading a comic book, undated, gelatin silver print, Purchased with funds from Dr. James E. and Debra Pearl for the Dr. James E. and Debra Pearl photograph collection, UMFA1999.49.21.

Event Categories: Kids/Family, Public Event, U Arts Pass
Campus Locations: Utah Museum of Fine Arts (UMFA)
Cost: Free
Campus Wide Event: Yes
More info: umfa.utah.edu…

Drop-in Drawing Disco: Watercolor Tunnel Books

Wednesday, June 17, 2026, 6 – 8pm

Looking for a place to meet fellow artists and learn new skills in Salt Lake City? Grab your sketchbook and head on over to a Drop-in Drawing Disco at the Utah Museum of Fine Arts! This free, laid-back event invites you to explore your artistic potential. Find inspiration in the galleries and create your own watercolor tunnel book!
All materials are provided, but feel free to bring your own sketchbook or current project to work on. All levels of experience are welcome. RSVP is encouraged but not required; join at any time as space allows.

Event Categories: Meetups, Public Event, U Arts Pass
Campus Locations: Utah Museum of Fine Arts (UMFA)
Cost: Free
Ticket URL: www.eventbrite.com…
Campus Wide Event: Yes
More info: umfa.utah.edu…