Behind the Scenes of Ignite Luncheon

Building Partnerships and Creating Experiences

May 8, 2025

Marjel van Dijk and Nadhiya Govindaraj

There are so many things that go into planning a successful, engaging fundraising event like the Ignite Luncheon.

Between the vision, the strategy, the story, and the execution, every step of putting together this event requires meticulous planning and collaboration.

In this behind-the-scenes look, two team members — Marjel van Dijk, who oversees donor events, and Nadhiya Govindaraj, who leads corporate engagement — share how this year’s Ignite Luncheon came together and the values that guided its creation.

Planting the Seeds

By Marjel van Dijk

Bringing the Ignite Luncheon to life involves weaving together so many unique details. From selecting our “Plant the Seed of Curiosity” theme, to thoughtfully choosing decor that reflects our work, to selecting food that leaves a lasting impression — every element is carefully considered.

The theme grew naturally from our purpose. Pacific Science Center plants seeds of curiosity in youth across Washington through interactive programs, camps, and community events.

Curiosity is crucial for young people and staying curious will help them develop into the amazing, critical, and curious innovators of tomorrow. The theme also underscores the communal effort involved in this mission. It is through the collective generosity and shared vision of PacSci’s donor community that these seeds of curiosity sprout, thrive, and inspire.

Table settings at the 2024 Ignite Luncheon event.

Building the Experience

We are grateful for the local partners who have helped put this event together!

We’re excited to host at Fisher Pavilion, a beautiful venue near us at Seattle Center that’s perfect for a large gathering. Kaspar’s Catering and Events has helped us craft a tasty menu designed to delight our guests, and Climate Pledge Arena has generously offered free parking for our guests.

I’m also incredibly grateful for the support of my colleagues across PacSci. For the last 4 months, our horticulturists have been growing cuttings from our Butterfly House to decorate the luncheon tables, for instance. Similarly, staff at our TinkerTank Makerspace have been 3D-printing custom vases in the style of Minoru Yamasaki to house these plants. We are looking forward to sending them home with our luncheon table hosts.

Every piece of this event — from the flowers to the food — is a reflection of the creativity, care, and community spirit that defines Pacific Science Center.

Fueling Curiosity Together

By Nadhiya Govindaraj

Connecting with companies eager to support our work at PacSci is so rewarding.

We get to invite them to be a part of something meaningful that supports their mission and values as much as it supports ours. For the Ignite Luncheon, we connect with sponsors who are not only supportive of our work but want to go above and beyond to be ambassadors for PacSci and support our goals to increase our impact.

I’m deeply grateful to all our incredible sponsors whose support and energy make the Ignite Luncheon possible. Together, we’re fueling curiosity as a community of partners who believe in the power of science to inspire, engage, and spark change.

Thank you to our sponsors!

Click the companies below to learn more about each of these impactful organizations.

Thank you to our Generous Sponsors:

Additional support provided by The Baldwin Group, Battelle – Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Charlie’s Produce, NWPS, Puget Sound Energy, Sellen Construction, Umpqua Bank, Climate Pledge Arena and Kaspars Catering & Events.

Help Us Grow From Afar

If you cannot attend but would like to support our Ignite Luncheon goals, please consider making a donation. Your gift will be counted in our Challenge Pool of matching gifts and help inspire others to extend their support on May 13.

Donations of $500 or greater will be recognized through inclusion in PacSci’s most passionate group of supporters, the Igniter Donor Society for one year.

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ABOUT THE AUTHORs

Nadhiya Govindaraj oversees Corporate Engagement at Pacific Science Center, driving efforts to expand PacSci’s role in fostering the next generation of STEM innovators. With a background in startups and product marketing, Nadhiya brings valuable insight into corporate needs and uncovers unique partnership opportunities that align with community engagement goals. Outside of work, Nadhiya enjoys attending community events and staying active through dance classes.

Email Nadhiya for insights and collaboration opportunities.

Marjel van Dijk oversees PacSci’s donor event strategy, crafting impactful and creative events that engage our STEM community and grow donor relationships. She has over a decade of experience in fundraising and events, knowing how thoughtful details translate to memorable experiences. Outside of work, Marjel enjoys cheering on the Seattle Sounders and Ballard FC with her family.

Email Marjel to connect about donor events and engagement