Luminary Celebration at

The Bushnell Theater

Photo Credit: Defining Studios

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Stay tuned for 2025!


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.


If you have any questions about the event, contact Development Manager, Michelle Murphy:  mmurphy@aurorafoundation.org

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 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?

    Half of your ticket purchase supports Aurora’s ongoing program needs, especially for our research and our College Success programs. The other half underwrites the cost of the event at The Bushnell, including an extensive array of heavy hors d’oeuvres from Max Catering as well as wine, sparkling water, and other non-alcoholic refreshments. Thank you for your support!

  • 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 fundaiser?

    Yes! This is our largest and most important annual fundraiser! Half of your ticket purchase and/or donation helps to sustain Aurora’s mission to provide improved educational, employment, and leadership p opportunities for women and girls in Greater Hartford; thus, $75 of your ticket purchase 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.