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Centennial Campaign News

Tampa Museum of Art Names Education Lobby in Recognition of Tampa Electric’s Commitment to Arts Education

Newly named TECO Education Lobby to welcome thousands of students, families, and community visitors each year.

Tampa Electric representatives along with Tampa Museum of Art board members and staff point to the new sign marking the TECO Education Lobby during the dedication ceremony at the Tampa Museum of Art. Photography by Paige Boscia.
Tampa Electric representatives along with Tampa Museum of Art board members and staff point to the new sign marking the TECO Education Lobby during the dedication ceremony at the Tampa Museum of Art. Photography by Paige Boscia.

Tampa, FL (September 25, 2025)—The Tampa Museum of Art has named its lobby in the education center the TECO Education Lobby, honoring Tampa Electric’s continued investment in arts education and its support of the Museum’s Centennial Campaign for Renovation and Expansion.

This naming recognizes Tampa Electric’s long-standing commitment to advancing arts access for students and families across the region. Each year, more than 24,000 individuals—from school children on guided tours to families attending weekend programs—will begin their learning experience in the newly named lobby, which serves as the entrance to the Museum’s Vinik Family Education Center.

Michael Tomor gives remarks at the TECO Education Lobby Dedication at the Tampa Museum of Art. Photography by Paige Boscia.
Michael Tomor gives remarks at the TECO Education Lobby Dedication at the Tampa Museum of Art. Photography by Paige Boscia.

“Tampa Electric’s partnership helps us expand opportunities for the community to connect with art in ways that foster creativity, confidence, and emotional well-being,” said Michael Tomor, Ph.D., the Penny and Jeff Vinik Executive Director of the Tampa Museum of Art. “We are proud to recognize TECO’s  investment in education as we grow our facilities and programs to meet the needs of Tampa Bay’s next generation.”

The TECO Education Lobby is part of the Museum’s multi-year Centennial Campaign to grow its downtown campus and serve more visitors. Completed in 2022, the Vinik Family Education Center  encompasses over 8,000 square feet of classroom and program space, and offers a setting for year-round studio art courses, early childhood learning, guided school visits, and comprehensive programs for all ages and abilities.

Carlos Aldazabal gives remarks at the TECO Education Lobby Dedication at the Tampa Museum of Art. Photography by Paige Boscia.
Carlos Aldazabal gives remarks at the TECO Education Lobby Dedication at the Tampa Museum of Art. Photography by Paige Boscia.

“Tampa Electric takes great pride in our enduring commitment to education,” said Carlos Aldazabal, vice president of Energy Supply for Tampa Electric. “We’re thrilled to support the Tampa Museum of Art in its mission to enrich lives through the power of art. This partnership opens the door to inspiring experiences for children and families, while championing creativity as a vital force in our community.”

Tampa Electric’s support of the Centennial Campaign comes from shareholder funds and does not affect customer bills. It builds on a long history of meaningful community partnerships across the Tampa Bay region. At the Museum, this contribution ensures that children can explore art through hands-on projects, students can connect classroom learning with visual culture, and families can participate in programs that encourage discussion and self-expression.

The Museum hosted a private celebration to unveil the TECO Education Lobby on September 24th, allowing guests to see educational programming in action and experience firsthand the impact of this partnership.

To learn more about the Tampa Museum of Art’s Centennial Campaign for Renovation and Expansion, visit Centennial.TampaMuseum.org.