October 2025
The Grand Oshkosh is celebrating a historic milestone–five record-breaking gifts, each representing the largest in our 142 year history, have been pledged in support of Our Grand Moment.
“These historic investments are a ringing endorsement of The Grand’s powerful role as both a cultural and economic catalyst,” said Rick Hearden, Chair of The Grand’s Board of Directors. “They will significantly propel The Grand–and downtown Oshkosh–into a vibrant future.”
We are deeply grateful for the JEK Foundation, the Alberta S. Kimball/Mary Anhaltzer Foundation, the Oshkosh Area Community Foundation, Roger and Lynn Van Vreede, and The Vette Family Fund at OACF for their extraordinary generosity. Each of these lead gifts will be recognized with a special naming opportunity to be announced at a later date.
With more than $8.4 million raised and pledged to date, The Grand is within reach of the funds needed to begin construction in partnership with the City of Oshkosh, which owns the building under a longstanding lease.
“We’re thrilled by this momentum—and can’t wait to connect with many more supporters as we share our vision of transformation from a historic theatre into a block-wide hub for entertainment and vibrancy in the heart of downtown Oshkosh. There’s a role and a need for everyone in this effort,” shared President and CEO Joseph Ferlo.
The expansion, designed by T.R. Karrels and Associates, will honor The Grand’s historic architecture by William Waters while introducing contemporary design and improves amenities for patrons and performers alike.
