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Neptune Pool Swim: Saturday, July 26, 2025

Members of The Foundation at Hearst Castle and their guests may swim in the Neptune Pool. A handful of charitable swim experiences are scheduled for 2024, limited to 50 guests each, so make your reservation today.

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Our Team

Leadership The Foundation at Hearst Castle's executive staff is a uniquely qualified group possessing extensive experience in areas of marketing, communications, and international sales surrounding entertainment and tourism. Doug Jenzen Executive Director Mia Fuggetta Operations Manager Board of Directors Our diverse board contributes professional expertise from fields as varied as finance, public relations, and hospitality to sports, art, and agriculture. All volunteers, they are generous with their time, care, and wisdom. Dia Rianda President Margaret Klevins Vice President Evelyn Plemons Secretary Kristin Rasmussen Treasurer Doug Ayres Director Susie Boutonnet Director Chris Burgart Director Lisa Haas Director Victor Herrera Director Schuyler Hoversten Director Abe Marquez Director Bill Thoma Director SUPPORT THE FOUNDATION, AND INSPIRE FUTURE GENERATIONS TO DREAM BIG!Join Now
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Education

Education at Hearst Castle Illuminate. Inspire. Empower. We’re inspiring and empowering future generations with educational tours, art lessons, conferences, scholarships, and authentic historical experiences. Featured Program STEAM Program at the Castle Designed to inspire and empower middle school students from underserved communities throughout California Watch students from the Boys & Girls Club experience our STEAM Program at Hearst Castle. Click above to view. Sponsored by The Foundation at Hearst Castle, the STEAM Program is a unique educational opportunity offered in collaboration with the CA State Parks PORTS Program. The program includes a custom tour of Hearst Castle and a guided exploration of nearby San Simeon Bay and Pier, aligned with grade-appropriate STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) curriculum. For qualifying groups,* our nonprofit organization covers all costs of your day trip, including a hearty lunch and transportation (if your district does not provide a bus). The STEAM program will be available on a first come, first served basis. *Some restrictions apply. This program is designed especially for students in underserved communities who do not have the opportunity to take field trips to museums or state parks. Please review the School Qualification Guidelines. STEAM Program Components Pre-visit: Classroom engagement with California State Parks interpreters using high-quality interactive videoconferencing Film: Screening of Hearst Castle: Building the Dream showcased on the SLO Safe Ride Charter Custom tour: Hearst Castle tour aligned with STEAM curriculum Coastal study: Guided exploration of the nearby pier and beach life, also aligned with STEAM Frequently Asked QuestionsHow many students does a STEAM tour accommodate? 45 students + 7 chaperones What if there are more than 40 students that want to come? While we try our hardest to accommodate everyone, we have to max out tour count at 40 due to various limitations and rules. What grade levels qualify for this opportunity? Grades 4-8th What does a typical STEAM tour day look like? The tour begins at 10:30am and goes until about 4:30pm; please keep in mind if you are a school traveling from afar, that does not include travel time. What if we have students who need special accommodations? Please let us know in the planning phase so that we can make the proper arrangements. Inclusivity is important to us. Are students allowed to bring their own lunch? Yes, of course. Just please make sure the lunch count provided is accurate as we don’t want a student to miss out. Can the STEAM tour be cut short? Unfortunately no. When signing up for the tour, you’re signing up for the full day — 10:30am – 4:30pm Calling All TeachersRequest More Information Today! Are you interested in bringing your class to Hearst Castle for an unforgettable STEAM tour? We’d love to share more information with you and help make it happen! These hands-on learning experiences are designed to inspire curiosity and creativity in students. Don’t wait too long—spots for qualifying schools fill up quickly. Reach out today to learn more and reserve your class’s opportunity to explore science, technology, engineering, arts, and math in a truly unique setting! Contact Us “Every detail was meticulously planned, from the charter [...]
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Unveiling the Beauty: Conservation Work on Hearst Castle’s Flemish Tapestries

SAN SIMEON, CA, JULY 25, 2024 — The ongoing FHC-funded conservation work on the three magnificent Flemish tapestries in the Hearst Castle Theater lobby is progressing beautifully. We’re excited to share that the first tapestry, “The Burning of the Numidian Camp,” has been completed and is ready for re-installation. Currently, conservation efforts are focused on the second tapestry, “The Conference of Scipio and Hannibal.” Textile conservator Ann Svenson is meticulously working on this piece, uncovering incredible details, particularly in the sections featuring woven gold. We’ve captured a series of photographs to illustrate the painstaking conservation process, starting with an overall view of the tapestry and zooming in until only a single strand of gold is visible. These images showcase the intricate process of creating gold “thread” in the 16th century. Artisans would wrap incredibly thin strips of gold around silk fibers, which were then woven into or affixed to the tapestries. The craftsmanship and patience required for this task are truly beyond imagination! Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to preserve and celebrate these historic treasures. About The Foundation at Hearst Castle Established in 1985, The Foundation at Hearst Castle (formerly called Friends of Hearst Castle) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit cooperating association affiliated with Hearst San Simeon State Historical Monument® and the San Luis Obispo Coast District of California State Parks. Through membership and fundraising, The Foundation supports educational, interpretive, and preservation programs for Hearst Castle and California State Parks. Through the Foundation, businesses, philanthropic organizations, and individuals can provide support and engagement with Hearst Castle. To find out more about The Foundation at Hearst Castle, please visit www.foundationathearstcastle.com. Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook to stay in the loop on the latest news and updates. The Foundation at Hearst Castle is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit association affiliated with Hearst San Simeon State Historical Monument® and the San Luis Obispo Coast District of California State Parks. EIN 77-0068533.  

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Exciting Expansion for Our STEAM Program

SAN SIMEON, CA, JULY 23, 2024 —   We are thrilled to announce the expansion of our STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) program for the upcoming year. Building on the success of last year’s initiative, where we hosted up to 14 schools and served over 600 students, we are now increasing our capacity to accommodate 25 schools and aim to serve over 1,000 students. How can we achieve this? To achieve this ambitious goal, we will be doubling our operational days, offering two tours each day. This change will provide greater flexibility in scheduling, making it easier for more schools to participate with the dates available. By doing so, we hope to extend the opportunity for hands-on learning and exploration to a broader audience of eager young minds. This expansion wouldn’t be possible without the support of our dedicated state park staff. Their commitment to excellence and passion for education make them incredible guides for the student tours at the castle. We extend our heartfelt thanks to them for their ongoing assistance and expertise, which are crucial to the success of our program. Our STEAM program is more than just an educational initiative; it’s a journey of exploration and self-discovery. We strive to provide engaging, hands-on experiences that delve into the realms of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math, while also inspiring our students to envision the endless possibilities that lie ahead. Just as Julia Morgan, the pioneering architect and engineer, built Hearst Castle a century ago, we want our students to see that they, too, can dream big and achieve their goals through dedication and creativity. As part of our program, students will engage in a variety of activities designed to both inspire and educate. At the beach, they will explore wildlife, dive into marine science, practice nature journaling, and learn about park careers. At the visitor center, students will participate in hands-on experiences that emphasize the historical and technological developments of our time. These experiences are crafted to provide valuable insights into the evolution of technology and its impact on society, all while aligning with California State Content Standards. Thank You To Our Donors We are also grateful to our donors, who play a pivotal role in the success of our STEAM program. We invite them to shadow our tours to see firsthand the impact of their contributions on the students who participate in our program. New Fundraising Goal To support this significant expansion, our fundraising goal for this year is set at $80,000. These funds will be used for various needs, including supplies, expanding our program, providing lunches and morning snacks, and covering transportation costs. We believe that with support, we can reach this goal and continue to provide enriching and inspiring experiences for our students. Looking Ahead As our program evolves, so does our commitment to excellence. We are focused on continually updating our resources and refining our activities to offer even more enriching experiences. The genuine excitement and curiosity we observe in students, particularly those encountering the beach for the first time, underscore the remarkable potential for learning and growth. Our mission is to […]

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Neptune Pool Swim: Saturday, September 7, 2024

Members of The Foundation at Hearst Castle and their guests may swim in the Neptune Pool. A handful of charitable swim experiences are scheduled for 2024, limited to 50 guests each, so make your reservation today.

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The Foundation at Hearst Castle Welcomes New Executive Director and Board Members

SAN SIMEON, CA, JUNE 24, 2024 — The Foundation at Hearst Castle is thrilled to announce the appointment of Doug Jenzen as its new Executive Director, along with welcoming Lisa Haas and Susan Boutonnet as the newest members of its board of directors. These appointments come at an exciting time as the Foundation continues to enhance its efforts in preserving the cultural and historical integrity of this iconic landmark. Doug Jenzen brings over 29 years of experience in nonprofit leadership to his new role as Executive Director of the Foundation at Hearst Castle. Previously, as Vice President of Engagement and Access at the Skirball Cultural Center in Los Angeles, Doug led a diverse team, managing a thriving retail and visitor experience operation. His strategic leadership not only increased visitor engagement significantly but also transformed the museum store into an educational resource that contributed notably to the center’s financial health. A Cal Poly graduate, Doug’s previous work in California’s central coast also includes uncovering and restoring a nearly century-old Cecil B. DeMille movie set. As Executive Director, Jenzen will be overseeing all aspects of the organization – including the management and growth of membership, pursuing grant opportunities, strategic planning, budget implementation, and securing ongoing funding. “Doug’s dedication to inclusivity and accessibility is evident through his initiatives to ensure that all community members – regardless of physical, cultural, or economic barriers – can engage with and enjoy the benefits of educational and cultural resources,” says Schuyler Hoversten, President of The Foundation at Hearst Castle Board. “His strategic planning abilities and commitment to heritage conservation are expected to drive significant advancements in the Foundation’s efforts to preserve and enhance the historical integrity of Hearst Castle. Doug’s innovative approaches and deep understanding of the nonprofit landscape will be instrumental as he leads the Foundation towards new heights in the coming years.” Lisa Haas joins the board of the Foundation at Hearst Castle with over 25 years of expertise in the Specialty Finish field as a leading decorative artist and licensed painting contractor in Northern California. Her work, which adorns both residential and commercial spaces locally and internationally, showcases her mastery in creating and restoring visually stunning environments. Lisa’s artistic skills extend beyond traditional aesthetics – she brings a unique blend of creativity and technical knowledge that is vital for the meticulous restoration projects at Hearst Castle. Beyond her professional achievements, Lisa is deeply invested in community engagement and education. Her commitment to the community is exemplified in her teaching of Mycology classes, which combine her love for science and nature. Lisa’s diverse background, from managing a full-time crew of talented painters to her innovative work in the decorative arts, positions her as a dynamic contributor to the Foundation’s board, enhancing both its conservation efforts and its mission to connect the public with the artistic and historical significance of Hearst Castle. Susan Boutonnet, a seventh-generation Californian, joins the Foundation at Hearst Castle with a robust background in community development and property management. As a partner at Village 5 LLC, Susan has been instrumental in providing safe and affordable housing solutions while maintaining a strong commitment to […]

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Hollywood at Hearst Castle Neptune Pool Swim: Sunday, August 24, 2024

Members of The Foundation at Hearst Castle and their guests may swim in the Neptune Pool. A handful of charitable swim experiences are scheduled for 2024, limited to 50 guests each, so make your reservation today.

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Join Us for Our Biggest Fundraising Event: Twilight on the Terrace at Hearst Castle!

SAN SIMEON, CA, FEBRUARY 12, 2024 — Prepare to immerse yourself in the epitome of elegance and philanthropy at Twilight on the Terrace, returning to Hearst Castle on June 1, 2024! As one of the most anticipated events on the Central Coast, this is your exclusive opportunity to experience an evening of enchantment while supporting the preservation and restoration efforts of Hearst Castle and our S.T.E.A.M program for underserved youth. Twilight on the Terrace stands as our only event open to the public, making it an extraordinary chance for everyone to participate in this noble cause. Join us for our biggest fundraising event of the year and make a meaningful impact with your support. What you can expect? Join us on June 1st for an enchanting night filled with lively music and entertainment, the finest wines, craft brews, and culinary delights. As you stroll along the Esplanade and Main Terrace, surrounded by the sweet fragrance of orange blossoms, you’ll have the opportunity to sip on exquisite wines and savor delicious offerings from local wineries, breweries, restaurants, and caterers. And this year, in response to your feedback, we’re excited to announce that we’ll have passed appetizers on hand to complement the evening’s experience. Not only that, but members have the opportunity to reserve a private lounge for you and your guests. These private lounges will include luxurious seating, shade and the best part of it all — food and beverage service directly to your lounge.  But the festivities don’t stop there! Take in the scenic beauty overlooking the magnificent Neptune Pool and let the lively music and entertainment set the mood for an unforgettable evening of dancing and celebration. As you revel in the splendor of Hearst Castle and enjoy the lively entertainment, consider the value of membership with the Foundation at Hearst Castle. Membership grants you exclusive access to special events and behind-the-scenes tours, providing you with even more opportunities to experience the beauty and history of this iconic landmark. This year, we’re pulling out all the stops to make Twilight on the Terrace even more memorable. Get ready to bid on incredible silent auction packages—previous winners have walked away with Golden State Warrior tickets, tickets to our exclusive events memberships, and much more. Who knows what treasures await you this year! Save the date for June 1st and secure your spot for an enchanting evening at Twilight on the Terrace before it sells out. Secure your ticket by purchasing here (Presale tickets end on March 15th) or visiting our website and viewing under our events page. Your presence matters, and we eagerly anticipate welcoming you to experience firsthand the difference your support makes, all while immersing yourself in the magic of the night. The Foundation at Hearst Castle strives to support all members’ experiences.  You can learn how to become a member and support our mission at Support Us | Foundation At Hearst Castle The Foundation at Hearst Castle is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit association affiliated with Hearst San Simeon State Historical Monument® and the San Luis Obispo Coast District of California State Parks. EIN 77-0068533.  

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Achieving New Heights: Celebrating 15 S.T.E.A.M Tours in 2024

SAN SIMEON, CA, FEBRUARY 12, 2023 — We’re thrilled to share the exciting news that we’ve surpassed our goal of 12 S.T.E.A.M tours for the year and officially hit our max of 15! It’s a remarkable achievement that underscores our commitment to inspiring and educating young minds through our unique S.T.E.A.M Program. What is the S.T.E.A.M Program? Our S.T.E.A.M Program is more than just an educational initiative; it’s a journey of exploration and self-discovery. We aim to provide engaging and hands-on experiences that not only delve into the realms of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math but also inspire our students to envision the endless possibilities that lie ahead. We aim to inspire our visitors to reflect on how the knowledge and experiences gained during our tours can influence their future aspirations and self-perception. Just as pioneering architect and engineer Julia Morgan built Hearst Castle a century ago, and William Randolph Hearst who had the vision to bring it to life, we want our students to recognize that they too have the power to dream big and turn their aspirations into reality. Join the Adventure!  As we celebrate the success of our past S.T.E.A.M tours, we’re thrilled to extend a warm invitation to all members to join our upcoming enriching adventures. These custom tours of notable landmarks, along with interactive workshops and guided explorations, offer immersive experiences aligned with grade-appropriate S.T.E.A.M curriculum. Furthermore, we wholeheartedly encourage you to take part in the tours you’ve played a pivotal role in bringing to life, allowing you to directly witness the profound impact of your contributions on our students’ educational journeys.  January 19th Shafter Youth Center February 9th El Sausal Middle School February 16th Peoples Self Help Housing Group  February 23rd San Lucas Elementary School March 1st  Fairgrove Elementary School March 8th Oak Avenue Elementary School March 15th  Palm Avenue Middle School March 22nd Virginia Peterson Elementary School April 19th Branch Elementary School April 26th Monarch Grove Elementary School May 3rd San Ardo Elementary  May 10th Loma Vista Community School May 17th Shell Beach Elementary School May 24th  Cambria Grammar School  May 31st Community Action Partnership of SLO  The Experience What makes our S.T.E.A.M Program even more special is the opportunity to introduce children to experiences they may have never encountered before. Imagine, for instance, some of the kids have never seen the beaches.In our upcoming tours, we have selected destinations where these young minds will have the chance to behold the beauty of the beach for the very first time, enhancing their educational journey with an added sense of wonder and excitement. Our S.T.E.A.M Program isn’t just about guiding students through tours—it’s about facilitating a transformative journey for both them and our participants. It’s about witnessing the sheer joy of discovery, the excitement of learning, and the profound impact it has on young minds. But more than that, it’s about embarking on a deeply personal journey of growth and inspiration. As we set forth on this path together, let’s aim to make this more than just an educational experience for kids. Let’s make it a personal journey—a voyage of self-discovery and enlightenment. […]

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