Donation comprises $1 million from the James E. and A. Dano Davis Family Charities and $500,000 from Jill and Jed Davis

Mar. 5, 2024 — JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The Museum of Science & History (MOSH) today announces significant donations for the MOSH Genesis capital campaign totaling $1.5 million from the Davis family. The donations include $1 million from James E. and A. Dano Davis Family Charities and $500,000 from Jill and Jed Davis. The combined gifts will be honored through the naming of the front lobby of the new Museum upon its completion.

The Davis Family’s philanthropic efforts span multiple generations, creating a legacy of transformative support for nonprofit organizations across the First Coast. Their philanthropic contributions primarily focus on healthcare-related projects, at-risk youth and advancing local education opportunities. These gifts include the Mayo Clinic, The Mary Lou Davis Endowment for Women’s Heart Initiative at Ascension St. Vincent’s, the Davis College of Business at Jacksonville University, The Mary Lou Davis Family Life Center at Riverside Presbyterian Day School, the Jacksonville Zoo and Seamark Ranch.

Jill Davis currently serves as the vice chair of the MOSH Board of Trustees and is also the chair of the MOSH Genesis capital campaign cabinet. Her service is fueled by her desire to generate philanthropic support for a brand-new, world-class museum in Jacksonville that is accessible to all members of the community, thus reinforcing the Davis family’s collective interest in pledging a substantial gift.

“As a multi-generation Jacksonville family, we take pride in supporting organizations that elevate the quality of life for all families in Northeast Florida,” stated Jed Davis, President and CEO of the Davis Family Office. “A project as impactful and far-reaching as this one requires support from across the philanthropic community — including personal contributions, family charities and corporate leaders. We are proud to align our family’s name with this important cultural institution and look forward to remaining engaged in its future growth and success.”

The MOSH Genesis capital campaign supports plans for MOSH to relocate to a new building on the Northbank of the St. Johns River in Downtown Jacksonville. In May 2023, legislation for a disposition and development agreement for 2.5 acres of City-owned land at the Shipyards property, commonly known as Lot X, was signed into law. The legislation grants MOSH a 40-year ground lease of the land for $1 per year; design of the park and the Riverwalk; and other agreements related to the creation of a new museum and surrounding park spaces.

MOSH has operated in its current location on the Southbank of Downtown Jacksonville since 1969. The Museum’s operations have outgrown the current 77,000-square-foot facility; building a new Museum will significantly expand the organization’s capacity to serve more students and visitors. Plans for the new Museum comprise approximately 100,000 square feet across three floors, with the option to build a future expansion of an additional 30,000 square feet.

“Working side-by-side with Jill this past year on the MOSH Genesis capital campaign, I am inspired by her personal dedication to bringing a world-class museum to Northeast Florida. She has selflessly contributed her time, resources and relationships to this effort. Her passion is shared by Jed and the entire Davis family. By supporting this capital campaign, the Davis family is breaking down barriers to lifelong learning. We are grateful to count the Davises among the many Jacksonville families who are joining us in bringing this vision to life,” said Maureen Mercho, Chief Development Officer of MOSH.

“The Davis family’s combined impact on Northeast Florida’s philanthropic community is undeniable. Their name carries a strong reputation not only for their business success, but also for an exemplary level of active engagement in this region’s quality of life. We are deeply grateful to honor their generosity through the naming of the lobby at our new Museum,” said William Magevney, Chair of the MOSH Board of Trustees.

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About The Museum of Science & History (MOSH)
The Museum of Science & History (MOSH) is located at 1025 Museum Circle near Friendship Park. MOSH, first chartered in 1941, inspires the joy of lifelong learning by bringing to life the sciences and regional history. Admission is $19.95 for adults; $16.95 for youth, students, active and retired military and seniors. There is no admission fee for children 2 and under or Museum Members. Learn more at themosh.org.