Top Dog Awards – 2026

Ticket Price – $125
5:30 – 6:15 PM Reception and Cocktails
6:15 – 8:00 PM Dinner and Program
Riverside Art Museum
3425 Mission Inn Ave, Riverside

The Top Dog evening honors individuals who continue the vision and dedication which transformed a small art center located in the old city dog pound into a dynamic museum housed in an historic Julia Morgan designed architectural gem. These individuals have all contributed their leadership, time and support to help make the Riverside Art Museum the vibrant arts organization it is today.

2026 HONOREES

Drew Oberjuerge, former Executive Director whose visionary leadership and commitment to uplifting the people and places of our region drove the museum’s growth for 13 years.
Todd Wingate, who has championed the arts in Riverside for decades, who brought thought leadership and engaging exhibitions to the museum, and provided significant financial support as a major donor, including a lead capital campaign gift to The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture of the Riverside Art Museum.
Lucile Arntzen, dedicated Art Alliance member and former RAM President, who played a leadership role in The Cheech project, has spearheaded Art Alliance fundraising efforts, and personally supports museum operations.

In Memorium we also honor:
Ofelia Valdez-Yeager, Past RAM Board President, community advocate, co-founder of Riverside’s Latino Network, and chair of The Cheech Capital Campaign.
Dan Benner, former RAM Trustee and architect who generously gave of his time and expertise during the planning and construction of The Cheech.
Madelyn Millen, former RAM Trustee and retired Visual Resources Curator at UCR and long-time museum volunteer who spent countless hours researching and archiving collections materials.
Doug McCulloh, former RAM Trustee, world renowned photographer and curator who contributed his expertise and creativity to the museum, including co-curating several exhibitions that brought to life the people and places of our regions.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

PRESENTING SPONSOR

Bernese Sponsor

Michelle Ouellette

Labrador Sponsor

Suzanne and Lawton Gray
Adam Guzkowski and Deena Imamura
Inland Empire Community Foundation

Schnauzer Sponsor

Erin Christmas
Kathy and Gary Christmas
Tami and Steve Maio
Valerie and Dane Found
Sue Mitchell and Zee Beard
Pat and Leon Reynolds