Taking an Interest

Sampa Bhadra and John Martin could not have discovered ROM at a more opportune time. At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Museum’s online offerings provided a much-needed escape for the two retired physics professors and opened a new avenue of lifelong learning they could enjoy together, despite their wide-ranging and varying interests. 

“We were so impressed with ROM’s digital offerings and great talks covering a broad range of fascinating topics that the Museum now has two new donors,” says Sampa. “From our home, we learned about Japanese prints, Buddha, musical instruments, and more. When restrictions lifted, we finally got to visit in person and came to appreciate how much ROM truly has to offer.” 

Physicists, amateur musicians, and art lovers, Sampa and John are passionate about the importance of expanding horizons—for themselves and for learners of all ages.  

“I’m always glad to see school buses lined up outside the Museum,” says John. “It's wonderful that young students can have that experience, but equally important that virtual learning experiences are accessible for classes in rural Ontario. We hope that our bequest will help provide sustained funding for these programs and similar stimulating ventures and encourage a younger generation to be able to engage in and appreciate a cultural gem.” 

Through their academic work, both Sampa and John are keenly aware of the existential threat to humanity from the climate crisis. "I find the appointment of Soren Brothers as Curator of Climate Change an inspired and important move by the Museum,” says John. “I hope it will help move the needle towards more urgent action addressing the crisis." 

With estate planning already on their minds, the pair connected with ROM staff who were able to provide deeper insights into the Museum’s work and help them design a future gift that aligned with their specific interests and fit their lifestyle. They settled on leaving a residual gift to ROM in their will, which will provide funding to the Museum’s climate change and education accessibility initiatives and textile collections. 

“Cultural institutions and organizations have given us such joy over the years,” explains John, "They are traditionally underfunded, but without them, we would be a greatly impoverished society. And ROM is a happy intersection of our broad interests. Geological history and the evolution of life, human cultures across time, our climate future – there is truly something for everyone.”  

“The Museum's exhibitions are outstanding,” says Sampa. “They showcase so many intriguing topics. I’m so impressed with the textiles shows and the meticulous work of ROM’s textile conservators, and I’m delighted to be able to support this area of personal interest.” 

By making this promised gift, John and Sampa join the Currelly Legacy Society, a visionary and engaged group of donors ensuring the future of the Museum’s offerings and collections, our city, and our society. They also enjoy special benefits, like invitations to exclusive events and opportunities for continued learning throughout their lifetimes.  

“ROM is one of the great museums,” say John and Sampa. “We would encourage everyone to invest in our city. To invest in Ontario’s intellectual prosperity and beauty. To help raise this great institution’s international profile.” 

To learn more about how to leave a legacy that champions the causes close to your heart, please contact Janice Correa at janicec@rom.on.ca.