The Explorers Club Members Dinner, or “TECMD,” is being held to honor club members and provide a lower-cost option for members not in a position to purchase ECAD tickets, with a venue on the same evening where they can come together with other explorers. The dinner is exclusive for EC Members in good standing, plus their guest. The public is not invited, as this is an opportunity to reconnect with colleagues in the exploration community and to meet new friends. The planning committee is comprised exclusively of Chapter Chairs from around the globe.

CONTEXT & BACKGROUND

First and foremost, it should be noted that ECAD is by far the biggest and most extravagant event the Explorers Club holds each year. For those who have never attended and can do so, it is highly recommended that you join and experience the scale and richness of the event. For those who have been in the past and are able to return, each ECAD features new themes, VIP guests, cuisine, and many other lovely surprises, so repeat trips are highly recommended.

Holding this true, the club also recognizes that not everyone is able to afford a seat at ECAD, and despite leaderships hard work to keep prices as low as possible, we must recognize that ECAD is not only a club dinner, but also our largest fund raiser which enables so much of the resources and infrastructure we all enjoy, including our wonderful Lowell Thomas Head Quarters. As such, Club Leadership, along with a committee of chapter chairs from around the world, has worked together to organize a separate, more affordable members’ dinner on the same night as ECAD.

TECMD is NOT a fundraiser; the goal is to keep the event affordable for all EC members. All proceeds go directly into the evening, with a zero balance upon completion.

We DO accept donations to help defray costs and keep them reasonable for attendees, thanks to our tax-deductible 501(c)(3) status.

2026 TECMD Committee: Tom Dietz, Tina Chiarelli, Rory Golden, David Collette, Lizzie Thome, and West Hansen