A Partnership in Motion

For ten years, Merrill Lynch and the American Museum of Natural History have worked together to create a successful partnership built on a mutual belief in the importance of science and education, both today and in the next millennium.

For well over a century, the American Museum of Natural History has been a leader among the world's science, research, and educational institutions. Since its founding in 1869, it has dedicated itself to the compelling quest to understand the natural world and man's place in it. The Museum's innovative and interactive presentations educate about four million visitors each year on-site, and over 30 million visitors on-line.

To continue its 130-year tradition of excellence in scientific research, unparalleled exhibitions and innovative educational programs, the Museum relies on support from the corporate community.

THE COMMITMENT

Over the past ten years, Merrill Lynch, one of the world's leading financial management and advisory companies, has been an important supporter of the American Museum of Natural History. Like the Museum, Merrill Lynch has been devoted to community service and leadership in education through its participation in educational initiatives, such as its ScholarshipBuilder program. On a global scale, all of the company's philanthropic efforts flow from a fundamental belief that people from all walks of life can become self-sufficient, fulfill their dreams, and realize their goals when offered access, tools, and knowledge.

In 1996, Merrill Lynch was the principal sponsor of the acclaimed "Leonardo's Codex Leicester: A Masterpiece of Science," on view at the Museum from October 26, 1996 through January 1, 1997. This exhibition of a rare manuscript by Leonardo da Vinci offered an in-depth view of the scientific thinking of one of the greatest geniuses in the history of the Western world. The Codex Leicester, written between 1506 and 1510, opens a window into the mind of the awe-inspiring Renaissance artist, scientist, and thinker while illuminating both the scientific and creative process. This enlightening exhibition included an innovative demonstration room, lectures, and children's workshops.

An additional grant from the Merrill Lynch Foundation in support of education programs to complement the exhibition allowed over 6,000 children from New York City public schools (grades 6-12) to attend the exhibition with a guide and to participate in special pre-and post-viewing programs.

The tremendous success of this partnership has led to an enduring relationship between the Museum and Merrill Lynch, and in 1996 Chairman and Chief Executive Officer David Komansky joined the Board of Trustees of the Museum.

"The American Museum of Natural History has been a source of inspiration, fun, and knowledge throughout my life," says Komansky. "I'm pleased that, as a trustee of the Museum, I'm able to support the vital role this institution plays--not only in the metropolitan area, but wherever knowledge is highly valued."

THE MOVEABLE MUSEUM

In July 1997, Merrill Lynch made a $1 million, three-year gift targeted to the Museum's educational outreach programs. As part of the gift, Merrill Lynch purchased and outfitted a new "Moveable Museum," a recreational vehicle converted into a mobile exhibition space. The Moveable Museum now travels to schools, community centers, parks, street fairs and other neighborhood organizations throughout the five boroughs of New York City.

The Merrill Lynch vehicle features an exhibition called "Structures and Culture," which invites visitors to explore the traditional homes of nomadic people in Africa, Asia, the Middle East and North America and to discover what architecture and artifacts tell us about each culture.

"With our new `Structures and Culture' Moveable Museum, we can bring thousands of school kids on a virtual, round-the-world expedition of cultural discovery," says Jeff Rodgers, Director of the Moveable Museum Program. "Merrill Lynch helped us create a new way for kids to learn about their world without ever leaving their neighborhood."

MUSEUM EDUCATION AND EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM

In addition to supporting exhibitions both within and beyond the Museum's walls, Merrill Lynch allocated a portion of its three-year grant to the Museum Education and Employment Program (MEEP), to demonstrate its support of the Museum's "human" resources. The MEEP program offers meaningful work experience to 60 young adults in New York City. These students complete a rigorous training program that prepares them to serve for six weeks as Museum guides, thereby enriching the Museum experience for the thousands of children who visit it each summer.

As Rosa Almonte, MEEP Program Supervisor, described so well, "This year's program was so rich. Not only did I learn earth science in the Hall of Planet Earth, but I also learned about myself by interacting with such a diverse group of people."