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A Milestone 47 Years in the Making
The evening of October 29, 2025 marked a transformative moment for the Bronx. The "CIGnified: A Bronx Celebration" event brought together community members, cultural partners, municipal leaders, and dedicated museum supporters to commemorate the Bronx Children's Museum's induction into the Cultural Institutions Group of New York City.
This historic designation represents the first expansion of the CIG of this magnitude since 1974, signaling a profound commitment to elevating cultural resources in the Bronx. The achievement reflects years of visionary leadership, community-engaged programming, and deep partnerships that have positioned BxCM as a cornerstone institution serving New York's most diverse borough.
Honoring Legacy Board Members
The celebration paid special tribute to the legacy board members whose early advocacy, governance, and sustained commitment made the Museum's evolution possible—from its founding incorporation to opening its doors, and now to institutional recognition. These visionary leaders were recognized on stage for their tireless service and dedication to bringing world-class cultural programming to Bronx children.
The evening acknowledged the intergenerational stewardship that has sustained the Museum's mission, recognizing founding Executive Director Carla Precht for her pioneering work and current Executive Director Denise Rosario Adusei for carrying the vision forward to this historic achievement.
"For decades, we have not had an institution from the Bronx become a member of CIG, until now. This is historic, this is profound and this is impactful. One thing I love is when we pass the mantle of leadership. That is what you ladies have done."
Vanessa L. Gibson
Bronx Borough President
What This Means for The Bronx
The Museum's induction into the CIG marks a pivotal milestone in its trajectory and represents a transformative moment for the entire borough. This prestigious designation brings:
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Enhanced Visibility: Recognition as part of New York City's formal family of major cultural institutions
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Sustained Support: $45 million in permanent city budget funding for CIG institutions
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Institutional Legitimacy: Standing alongside the city's most established cultural organizations
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Long-term Stability: Guaranteed resources to serve Bronx families for generations to come
Borough President Gibson presented the Museum with a proclamation declaring October 29, 2025 "Bronx Children's Museum Day," cementing this historic achievement in the official record.
An Evening of Celebration and Community
The "CIGnified" celebration transformed the Museum's South Bronx facility into a vibrant showcase of cultural creativity and community spirit. Guests enjoyed grown-up activities throughout the museum, experiencing the joy and wonder that Bronx children encounter every day.
The evening featured interactive workshops including graffiti art with renowned collective Tats Cru and beatbox sessions with Doctor Brick from The Academy of Noise. Attendees explored nostalgic pattern play stations and enjoyed large-format "lawn" games, creating an atmosphere of playful celebration fitting for this momentous occasion.
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