The Players Championship Gifts $1 Million to Museum of Science & History Capital Campaign
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (October 8, 2026) – Today, the Museum of Science & History announced a $1 million gift from The Players Championship to its capital campaign, supporting the development of the Museum’s new home on Jacksonville’s Northbank.
This gift from The Players will sponsor the development of a lead exhibit within one of the Museum’s planned galleries. The exhibit will invite visitors to explore the science, skill and art of the game of golf, sparking a greater understanding and appreciation for a sport deeply rooted in this region.
As one of Northeast Florida’s largest charitable contributors, The Players has donated more than $130 million to over 300 area nonprofits since 1974. It invests in organizations committed to areas such as youth services, education, character development, health, wellness, sports and military support, priorities which align closely with the Museum’s purpose to spark curiosity through science, culture and discovery.
“Innovation is part of The Players’ DNA, but so is giving back to the community,” said Lee Smith, vice president, The Players Championship and TPC Sawgrass. “We're proud to partner with the Museum of Science & History on a project that will create a lasting asset for Northeast Florida, deepen The Players’ connection to downtown Jacksonville and provide families with a new way to engage with the championship year-round.”
This gift will help the Museum deliver exceptional educational experiences for visitors of all ages and marks the latest milestone for the future facility in downtown Jacksonville.
“Projects of this scale are made possible when leaders across our community come together around a shared vision for Jacksonville’s future,” said Chris Kalin, Museum Board of Trustees member and Regional President for PNC Bank. “The Players has long demonstrated what meaningful corporate and philanthropic leadership can look like in Northeast Florida. Their investment in the Museum is a powerful example of how our business community can help shape transformational projects that will serve Jacksonville for generations.”
The Players joins a growing list of local and regional donors supporting the Museum’s capital campaign, which has raised nearly $100 million. The Museum and the surrounding park will serve as a cultural anchor for Jacksonville’s Northbank, creating more than seven acres of immersive indoor and outdoor learning experiences. The new facility will total a projected 125,000 square feet across five stories, housing 10 galleries.
“The Players’ generosity will be felt in the experiences we create for children, families, students, and visitors for years to come,” said Lysa M. Barbano, Executive Director of the Museum of Science & History. “This gift helps us bring to life a Museum where curiosity is sparked, discoveries are made, and lasting memories are created. We are deeply grateful to The Players for investing in the people who will walk through our doors and in all that this Museum will make possible for our community.”