Annual California Hall of Fame Artifact Exhibition Opening

Learn more about the exhibit here.

On December 19, 2024, the posthumous 18th class was inducted in a virtual ceremony by Governor Gavin Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom, joining over 160 previously inducted Californians whose achievements have made history and changed the state, the nation and the world.

For the first time in the history of the California Hall of Fame, this class is entirely comprised of women in a meaningful recognition of women’s achievements, which have historically been underrepresented in California’s history.

18th Class Inductees

From household names to quiet, unsung heroes, each of these changemakers made her mark on the Golden State, and moved the world forward. Click the links below to learn about each of their unique stories.

Julia Child: Renowned cook, author, and television personality
Ina Donna Coolbrith: Pioneering poet
Vicki Manalo Draves: Trailblazing Olympic diver
Mitsuye Endo: History-making civil rights activist
Dian Fossey: Primatologist and devoted gorilla conservationist
Alice Piper: Unsung civil rights hero
Tina Turner: Iconic singer and performer

Exhibition & Online Tribute

On May 24, 2025, the California Museum will open an artifact exhibition featuring photos and memorabilia of Julia Child, Ina Donna Coolbrith, Vicki Manalo Draves, Mitsuye Endo, Dian Fossey, Alice Piper, and Tina Turner. Inductee representatives have collaborated closely with the Museum to co-curate their displays, with many contributing items from an inductee’s personal collection. Las traducciones al español estarán disponibles. / Spanish language translations will be available.

View tribute videos honoring each member of the 18th class here.

The 18th class is also on display in the Museum lobby.