We look forward to welcoming you to Rice University on October 26, 2023 for the 30th Anniversary Gala of the Baker Institute for Public Policy. A copy of the invitation is available here.
The event promises to be extraordinary, featuring Henry Kissinger, the United States’ 56th Secretary of State; James A. Baker, III, 61st Secretary of State; and Hillary Rodham Clinton, 67th Secretary of State, with Norah O’Donnell, managing editor and anchor of CBS Evening News, serving as moderator.
Details for guests of the Baker Institute’s 30th Anniversary Gala are outlined below. Table hosts are encouraged to share these details with their invited guests.
Transportation & Parking
Transportation: The Baker Institute’s 30th Anniversary Gala will take place in a tent adjacent to James A. Baker III Hall on the campus of Rice University.
Valet Parking: Gala guests should enter the Rice University campus at Entrance 4, located off Main Street, and follow the signs to Valet Parking.
Gala Entry
Entry and check-in will take place on Jamail Plaza in front of Baker Hall.
Check-in will open at 5:45 pm, and all guests should plan to arrive by 6:45 pm. A valid government-issued ID is required for entry.
Please plan to arrive early and anticipate time for security screening. Due to heightened security screening measures, there will be longer-than-usual lines for valet parking.
All carried items will be screened and may delay your entry to the event. Any prohibited items must be returned to your vehicle or discarded.
VIP Photo Opportunities
Guests who purchased tables at the Secretary, Ambassador, and Diplomat levels of support will receive one photo line card to be photographed with the gala guests of honor. One photo line card per table purchaser will be provided at VIP reception check in.
The photo line will be open from 6:00–6:15 pm; participants are strongly encouraged to arrive early to ensure participation. A small bag and purse check will be available at the photo line table. Additional photography, including cell phone photography, will not be permitted in the auditorium.
A separate VIP reception photo opportunity will be available to all VIP guests on arrival in Baker Hall.
Additional questions regarding the photo line should be directed to Baker Institute Director of Development, Leah Gross, at leah.gross@rice.edu.
Other Information
Program: The Baker Institute’s 30th Anniversary Gala is a black tie event, which will feature a welcome reception followed by a seated dinner. Doors will open at 5:45 pm; all guests should be seated by 6:55 pm. The gala program with the evening’s honored guests will begin at 7:00 pm.
Security: Cell phones will be permitted, but cameras and video recording equipment of any kind are prohibited. Weapons, including keychain pocket knives, are prohibited. Purses are permitted, but backpacks, large bags, water bottles, umbrellas, noisemakers, and signs are also not allowed.
Media: All members of the press must be identified and properly credentialed by the Rice University Office of Public Affairs.
Accessibility: Wheelchair seating is available to all guests but advance notice is requested by emailing bipprsvp@rice.edu. Passenger drop-off is available at the front of the venue, and handicap parking is available at the south end of West Lot 2.
Dietary Restrictions: The Baker Institute team will accommodate any of our guest’s dietary needs. Please inform your server at the event, or reach out to bipprsvp@rice.edu with any additional questions.
We look forward to seeing you on Oct. 26. Please reach out to the Baker Institute events team at bipprsvp@rice.edu with any additional questions.