THE AURORA FOUNDATION
LUMINARY CELEBRATION.
Luminary Celebration at
The Bushnell Theater
Photo Credit: Defining Studios
Date:
October 22, 2025
Time: 5:30 - 7:30 PM
Location:
The Bushnell - Belding Theater
166 Capitol Avenue, Hartford, CT
LUMINARY CELEBRATION | YOUR SUPPORT LIGHTS THE WAY
ABOUT THE EVENT
Join us on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, from 5:30 - 7:30 PM for the Aurora Luminary Celebration at The Bushnell’s Belding Theater for an evening that will inspire, uplift, and connect.
Together, we’ll celebrate the women and girls whose lives are transformed through your support—and honor the luminaries like YOU who make it all possible.
Questions? Please reach out: luminary@aurorafoundation.org or 860-969-3435.
LUMINARY CELEBRATION
GUEST SPEAKER
We are honored to welcome Connecticut Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas as our 2025 Luminary Celebration keynote speaker.
A trailblazing leader, Secretary Thomas made history as the first Black person elected to this role. Since taking office, she has led the implementation of significant election reforms in the state, including the roll-out of early voting and a new centralized voter registration system, while securing a $25 million investment to modernize voting statewide.
With a distinguished 30-year career advising and problem-solving for nonprofit organizations, running her own business, and serving as a State Representative of the 143rd District (Norwalk, Wilton, Westport), Secretary Thomas brings a unique blend of business expertise and a passion for civics to public service.
Known for her creative civic outreach—from barbershop conversations to trivia nights—Secretary Thomas believes that a healthy representative democracy relies on regular and active participation in civic life by all.
LUMINARY COMMITTEE
CO-CHAIRS:
Rauchell Beckford-Anderson
Katherine Killen Hall
MEMBERS:
Karen Binkhorst
Tracey Flynn
Elaine Leshem
Maureen Kennedy
Mickey Mattei
Michelle O'Connell
Chef Renee Williams
LUMINARY CELEBRATION
Frequently Asked Questions
What does my ticket include?
Your ticket includes a fun reception -- featuring an extensive array of heavy hors d’oeuvres from Max Catering, as well as wine, sparkling water, and other non-alcoholic refreshments -- followed by an inspiring program in the Belding Theater spotlighting the incredible participants in our College Success program as well as the luminaries -- like you! -- whose support creates opportunities for women and girls to shine.
Can I sit with my friends/co-workers/group?
Yes! When you register, please include the name of the Luminary Ambassador who invited you; your employer; and/or other information that will help us ensure you’ll be seated with your group.
If I can't attend can I still make a donation?
Absolutely! Please consider becoming a Silver Star Donor or making a donation here :https://donorbox.org/2025-luminary-event-2025 OR mail in a check without processing fees to:
Aurora Women and Girls Foundation
PO Box 370537
West Hartford, CT 06137
Is this a fundraiser?
Yes! This is our largest and most important annual fundraiser! Proceeds will help to sustain Aurora’s mission to provide improved educational, employment, and leadership opportunities for women and girls in Greater Hartford. The fair market value of one (1) ticket is $75. The rest of your ticket purchase supports Aurora’s mission—and is tax-deductible!
LUMINARY CELEBRATION
DIRECTIONS
The Bushnell is located in Downtown Hartford at:
166 Capitol Avenue, Hartford, Connecticut 06106
Use Google Maps to navigate or follow directions:
From the North or South, take I-91 to Exit 29A (Capitol Area). Go halfway around the rotary, and bear right onto Elm Street. Take the first left onto West Street. Turn right onto Capitol Avenue and continue one block to The Bushnell.
From the East, take I-84 West to Exit 50 (Main Street). At the second light, turn left onto Main Street. At the tenth light, turn right onto Capitol Avenue. Continue three blocks to The Bushnell.
From the West, take I-84 East to Exit 48B (Capitol Avenue/Asylum Street). Bear right onto Capitol Avenue. At the light, turn left onto Capitol Avenue. Continue one block to The Bushnell.