Liz Anstine Named

2026 National Lowell Milken Center Fellow

The Lowell Milken Center (LMC) for Unsung Heroes in Fort Scott, Kansas, an international educational non-profit, has awarded its prestigious Fellowship to Liz Anstine, a business teacher at Olathe North High School in Olathe, KS. Liz will arrive in Fort Scott on June 28th for a week of collaboration with LMC staff and the other members of the Fellowship.

The LMC Fellowship is a merit-based award for educators of all disciplines who value the importance of teaching respect and understanding through project-based learning. The Center selects exemplary teachers from the United States and around the world who will collaborate on projects that discover, develop, and communicate the stories of Unsung Heroes in history.

Liz, a teacher at Olathe North High School, was recognized in 2025 as the Kansas Teacher of the Year. Teaching a range of courses, Liz is known across the state for her leadership and mentoring, as well as her ability to create a classroom environment that encourages critical thinking, open dialogue, and student success.

Within her school and beyond, Liz has demonstrated exceptional leadership through her commitment to collaboration and mentorship. Her ability to connect classroom learning to the complexities of the real world makes her a strong fit for the Lowell Milken Center Fellowship. Liz’s insight and experience will be a valuable asset as she works to guide students in discovering and sharing the stories of Unsung Heroes as part of the 2026 LMC Fellowship.

LMC Executive Director Norm Conard says, “Liz’s ability to connect classroom experiences to the complex real world will make her a valuable asset in discovering unsung heroes for our 2026 LMC Fellowship.”

While in Fort Scott, LMC Fellows gain knowledge, educational resources, and support in helping students cultivate a passion for learning by creating projects that initiate positive change. Fellows will be equipped to develop Unsung Heroes projects with their students, applying and evaluating the stories of these role models who have changed the world throughout history.

Elizabeth Hutton Named

 2026 National Lowell Milken Center Fellow

FORT SCOTT, KS – June 1, 2026 – The Lowell Milken Center (LMC) for Unsung Heroes in Fort Scott, Kansas, an international educational non-profit, has awarded its prestigious Fellowship to Elizabeth, a history teacher at Lebanon High School in Lebanon, MO. Elizabeth will arrive in Fort Scott on June 28th for a week of collaboration with LMC staff and the other members of the Fellowship.

The LMC Fellowship is a merit-based award for educators of all disciplines who value the importance of teaching respect and understanding through project-based learning. The Center selects exemplary teachers from the United States and around the world who will collaborate on projects that discover, develop, and communicate the stories of Unsung Heroes in history.

Elizabeth Hutton, a high school history teacher from Lebanon, Missouri, has been recognized for her outstanding leadership in guiding students to the National History Day (NHD) national competition in College Park, Maryland. Her long-standing commitment to historical scholarship and student achievement has made her a distinguished figure in the NHD community.

Hutton’s relationship with National History Day began in 1999, when she first participated as a high school freshman. Over the course of her four years as a competitor, she qualified for the national competition three times. As a sophomore, her documentary group earned sixth place in the nation with a project highlighting the life and legacy of influential but often overlooked musician Huddie “Leadbelly” Ledbetter.

Her most notable achievement as a student competitor came during her freshman year, when her performance group uncovered the story of Irena Sendler, the Polish humanitarian who rescued hundreds of children from the Warsaw Ghetto during the Holocaust. Their project, titled Life in a Jar, attracted national media attention and later inspired both a Hallmark Hall of Fame movie and a bestselling book on the Holocaust.

Hutton’s passion for National History Day continued into her college years, where she served as a volunteer judge for local competitions. After becoming an educator, she established her own NHD course, guiding and mentoring students as they pursued their own original research. Under her leadership, many of her students have earned regional and national recognition for their work.

Her ongoing dedication to historical inquiry, student empowerment, and excellence in education continues to make a meaningful impact on her school, community, and the broader field of history education.

LMC Executive Director Norm Conard says, “Elizabeth’s involvement with project-based learning and research for National History Day projects will be an excellent resource for our 2026 Fellows.”

While in Fort Scott, LMC Fellows gain knowledge, educational resources, and support in helping students cultivate a passion for learning by creating projects that initiate positive change. Fellows will be equipped to develop Unsung Heroes projects with their students, applying and evaluating the stories of these role models who have changed the world throughout history.

Jennifer McMunn Named

2026 National Lowell Milken Center Fellow

The Lowell Milken Center (LMC) for Unsung Heroes in Fort Scott, Kansas, an international educational non-profit, has awarded its prestigious Fellowship to Jennifer McMunn, a humanities enrichment teacher at Mansfield Middle School in Connecticut. Jennifer will arrive in Fort Scott on June 28th for a week of collaboration with LMC staff and the other members of the Fellowship.

The LMC Fellowship is a merit-based award for educators of all disciplines who value the importance of teaching respect and understanding through project-based learning. The Center selects exemplary teachers from the United States and around the world who will collaborate on projects that discover, develop, and communicate the stories of Unsung Heroes in history.

Jenn McMunn is a humanities enrichment teacher from Mansfield Middle School in Connecticut. As an enrichment teacher, Jenn aims to provide challenging, relevant learning extensions for all students. She leads the school’s National History Day program, and this year she’s focused on developing local history units for America 250.

Jenn enjoys seeking opportunities to grow as an educator. She’s a Fulbright Fellow and a Connecticut Writing Project Teacher Consultant. In 2024 and 2025, she participated in the Young People’s Continental Congress, sponsored by National History Day and Carpenters’ Hall, both as a participant and as a teacher-mentor. She recently attended the Teaching 250 Convening in Philadelphia to help develop curricular materials for America 250.

LMC Executive Director Norm Conard says, “Jennifer’s experience with project-based learning and research, using primary and secondary sources, will greatly benefit the LMC Fellowship.”

While in Fort Scott, LMC Fellows gain knowledge, educational resources, and support in helping students cultivate a passion for learning by creating projects that initiate positive change. Fellows will be equipped to develop Unsung Heroes projects with their students, applying and evaluating the stories of these role models who have changed the world throughout history.

1 South Main

Fort Scott, KS 66701

Elizabeth Metts Named

2026 National Lowell Milken Center Fellow

The Lowell Milken Center (LMC) for Unsung Heroes in Fort Scott, Kansas, an international educational non-profit, has awarded its prestigious Fellowship to Elizabeth Metts, a 9th-grade history teacher at Excel Academy Charter High School in East Boston, MA. Elizabeth will arrive in Fort Scott on June 28th for a week of collaboration with LMC staff and the other members of the Fellowship.

The LMC Fellowship is a merit-based award for educators of all disciplines who value the importance of teaching respect and understanding through project-based learning. The Center selects exemplary teachers from the United States and around the world who will collaborate on projects that discover, develop, and communicate the stories of Unsung Heroes in history.

Elizabeth, a National Board Certified history teacher originally from Texas, was recognized this past February as a Massachusetts Milken Educator. History is a popular subject at Excel Academy Charter High School, as Elizabeth empowers her students to succeed and excel through a flipped, self-paced ancient world history classroom rooted in hands-on learning. Students engage in gallery walks, debates, individualized student work, and research projects, with frequent feedback and learning pods that promote ownership of their progress. Since her arrival, student participation in AP World History has doubled—developing a vibrant group of learners who not only immerse themselves in the evolution of civilizations, cultures, and social advances around the world, but also gain an appreciation for their place in it.

At her school, Elizabeth is a 9th-grade team leader, serves on the hiring committee, mentors new teachers, leads professional development, coordinates the National Honor Society, and leads a homework club after school. Committed to preparing the next generation of teachers, Metts coaches through Excel’s Teaching Fellowship program. Additionally, she has broadened her reach as a Teach Plus Massachusetts Policy Fellow and CURATE Fellow for the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

LMC Executive Director Norm Conard says, “Elizabeth’s commitment to research projects and hands-on learning, along with her passion for creating a differentiated classroom, will add to the 2026 Fellowship.”

While in Fort Scott, LMC Fellows gain knowledge, educational resources, and support in helping students cultivate a passion for learning by creating projects that initiate positive change. Fellows will be equipped to develop Unsung Heroes projects with their students, applying and evaluating the stories of these role models who have changed the world throughout history.

The Lowell Milken Center (LMC) for Unsung Heroes in Fort Scott, Kansas, has awarded its 2026 Fellowship to 12 educators. As part of their week-long experience in Fort Scott, the six fellows for June 22 – 26 were presented the key to the city by Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce President & CEO, Lindsay Madison. (Six more Fellows will arrive on June 29^th.)

Upon presenting the keys, Madison remarked, “The City of Fort Scott is proud to welcome the 2026 Lowell Milken Center Fellows and present them with keys to the city. It is inspiring to see outstanding educators from across the country come to Fort Scott to deepen their commitment to teaching and learning. As they return to their schools and communities, they will carry forward the mission of the Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes, ensuring that the stories of individuals whose contributions have too often gone unrecognized continue to be shared. Recognizing those who have made a meaningful difference is important work, and through these powerful stories, future generations are inspired to make a positive impact in the world.”

The Fellows honored this week were Collin Binko from Wyoming, Katie Botello from California, Heather Hurt from Alabama, James Lawlor from New York, Johnna Stoffregen from Kansas, and Magali Turner from New Mexico. LMC Director Norm Conard praised these outstanding individuals, saying, “We are so honored to be able to network and collaborate with these exemplary educators and provide them with an opportunity to reflect, reenergize and strategize with each other as they seek to find new ways to inspire their students.”

Every summer, the Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes awards its Fellowship to national and international award-winning educators from America and around the world. As LMC Fellows, they deepen their understanding of Unsung Heroes and project-based learning, preparing them to develop Unsung Heroes projects with their students and learn the stories of role models who help change the world. Along with the time spent deepening their professional skills at the LMC, the Fellows have enjoyed visiting the Fort Scott area.

Katie Botello Named

2026 National Lowell Milken Center Fellow

The Lowell Milken Center (LMC) for Unsung Heroes in Fort Scott, Kansas, an international educational non-profit, has awarded its prestigious Fellowship to Katie Botello, a video production teacher at Sunnyside High School in Fresno, CA. Katie will arrive in Fort Scott on June 21st for a week of collaboration with LMC staff and the other members of the Fellowship.

The LMC Fellowship is a merit-based award for educators of all disciplines who value the importance of teaching respect and understanding through project-based learning. The Center selects exemplary teachers from the United States and around the world who will collaborate on projects that discover, develop, and communicate the stories of Unsung Heroes in history.

Katie Botello, a video production teacher from Fresno, CA, was recognized in 2019 as a Milken Educator. Katie is the coordinator of the Video Production Academy, a three-year grant-funded program aimed at building a school within a school. Her students learn hands-on production skills and earn certifications that land them work in the industry while still attending high school.

Last year, Katie earned her National Board Certification in Career Technical Education. She is on the board for the Fresno Clovis Community Media Alliance, completed a Journalism Teacher Fellowship with Cal Matters, and is actively working with Kincade Productions to get students in California recognition through the state for completing training as a production assistant. In September, she was given a Resolution from the State of California highlighting the work she has completed with her students. She loves working with community and business partners to help give her students real-world applications of the skills they learn in class.

LMC Executive Director Norm Conard says, “Katie’s expertise and experience utilizing project-based learning and interdisciplinary instructional approaches will significantly benefit our 2026 team of LMC Fellows.”

While in Fort Scott, LMC Fellows gain knowledge, educational resources, and support in helping students cultivate a passion for learning by creating projects that initiate positive change. Fellows will be equipped to develop Unsung Heroes projects with their students, applying and evaluating the stories of these role models who have changed the world throughout history.

Heather Hurt Named

2026 National Lowell Milken Center Fellow

The Lowell Milken Center (LMC) for Unsung Heroes in Fort Scott, Kansas, an international educational non-profit, has awarded its prestigious Fellowship to Heather Hurt, a fifth-grade teacher at Vestavia Hills Elementary Central in Alabama. Heather will arrive in Fort Scott on June 21st for a week of collaboration with LMC staff and the other members of the Fellowship.

The LMC Fellowship is a merit-based award for educators of all disciplines who value the importance of teaching respect and understanding through project-based learning. The Center selects exemplary teachers from the United States and around the world who will collaborate on projects that discover, develop, and communicate the stories of Unsung Heroes in history.

Heather Hurt, a fifth-grade teacher at Vestavia Hills Elementary Central in Alabama, was honored in 2018 as an Alabama Milken Educator. She is known for her engaging creativity, exceptional relationships with students and parents, and her passion for preparing students for success beyond the standards. Her interdisciplinary, creative, and tech-savvy lessons encourage students to think outside the box while fostering collaboration, curiosity, and confidence in the classroom.

Within her school community, Hurt is recognized for creating meaningful learning experiences that inspire students to become innovative thinkers and lifelong learners. Her commitment to student growth and creative education reflects the mission and values of the Lowell Milken Center.

LMC Executive Director Norm Conard says, “Heather’s collaborative spirit and innovative approach to education make her an excellent fit for our Fellowship program. Her interdisciplinary and creative lessons encourage students to think beyond the classroom, and her work with the 2026 Fellows team will undoubtedly yield many great projects and ideas.”

While in Fort Scott, LMC Fellows gain knowledge, educational resources, and support in helping students cultivate a passion for learning by creating projects that initiate positive change. Fellows will be equipped to develop Unsung Heroes projects with their students, applying and evaluating the stories of these role models who have changed the world throughout history.

James Lawlor Named

2026 National Lowell Milken Center Fellow

The Lowell Milken Center (LMC) for Unsung Heroes in Fort Scott, Kansas, an international educational non-profit, has awarded its prestigious Fellowship to James Lawlor, a social studies teacher at Jericho Middle School in Jericho, NY. James will arrive in Fort Scott on June 21st for a week of collaboration with LMC staff and the other members of the Fellowship.

The LMC Fellowship is a merit-based award for educators of all disciplines who value the importance of teaching respect and understanding through project-based learning. The Center selects exemplary teachers from the United States and around the world who will collaborate on projects that discover, develop, and communicate the stories of Unsung Heroes in history.

James Lawlor, a dedicated middle and high school social studies teacher with 27 years of experience, fosters student engagement and strengthens critical thinking skills through dynamic project-based learning. His classroom emphasizes inquiry, collaboration, and real-world connections, empowering students to take ownership of their learning. By guiding students to explore complex historical and civic issues, James cultivates thoughtful analysis, creativity, and a deeper understanding of the world around them.

James’s students regularly participate in the Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes National Discovery Award competition, where multiple projects have earned national recognition—highlighting their dedication to research, storytelling, and bringing Unsung Heroes to light. He is also an LMC ARTEFFECT Ambassador whose students submit entries to the competition annually.

LMC Executive Director Norm Conard says, “James’ methods for implementing project-based learning, promoting critical thinking, and creating a supportive learning environment will add tremendous value to the 2026 Fellowship.”

While in Fort Scott, LMC Fellows gain knowledge, educational resources, and support in helping students cultivate a passion for learning by creating projects that initiate positive change. Fellows will be equipped to develop Unsung Heroes projects with their students, applying and evaluating the stories of these role models who have changed the world throughout history.

The Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes’ special summer exhibition honoring Unsung Hero Mary Anning is now open!

Long before paleontology became a recognized field, Mary Anning was making groundbreaking fossil discoveries along the cliffs of England’s Jurassic Coast. Her findings helped shape our understanding of prehistoric life and inspired generations of scientists.

Visitors to the exhibition can explore fascinating fossils, life-sized replicas, dinosaur teeth and claws, and learn how one determined young woman changed science forever. Watch the KOAM-TV News segment featuring the exhibition, and plan your visit today!

Discovery Award Deadline Approaching

Over the years, the Lowell Milken Center Discovery Award competition has grown, as more teachers and students embrace project-based learning and the opportunity to bring overlooked stories to light. The quality, creativity, and depth of research in these projects continue to impress our judges and inspire everyone involved.

We are looking forward to receiving this year’s submissions and seeing the remarkable stories students have discovered. If you are a teacher or student currently working on a project and have questions about the submission process, we are always happy to help—please feel free to reach out.

• Discovery Award project deadline: July 1
• Learn more and access submission information: lowellmilkencenter.org/competitions/discovery-award
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: 620-223-1312

Do you know an educator or student who would love this opportunity? Please help us spread the word! Share the Discovery Award with teachers, students, and schools in your circle and invite them to discover a hero, create a project, and make an impact.

Welcoming the 2026 LMC Fellows

On June 21, we will welcome our first group of national award-winning educators from across North America to Fort Scott for the 2026 Lowell Milken Center Fellowship.

Week 1 Fellows (June 21–26)

• Collin Binko: 2024 Wyoming Milken Educator, Jackson, WY
• Katie Botello: 2019 California Milken Educator, Fresno, CA
• Heather Hurt: 2018 Alabama Milken Educator, Vestavia Hills, AL
• James Lawlor: Discovery Award Winner / ARTEFFECT Ambassador, Jericho, NY
• Johnna Stoffregen: 2019 NAEA Kansas Art Educator and ARTEFFECT Ambassador, Andover, KS
• Magali Turner: 2023 New Mexico Milken Educator, Deming, NM

Week 2 Fellows (June 28–July 3)

• Liz Anstine: 2025 Kansas Teacher of the Year, Olathe, KS
• Elizabeth Hutton: Life in a Jar Original Cast / Project Member, Lebanon, MO
• Jennifer McMunn: Finalist for National History Day Teacher of the Year, Mansfield, CT
• Elizabeth Metts: 2025 Massachusetts Milken Educator, Boston, MA
• Danyel Smith: 2024 California Milken Educator, Rancho Cucamonga, CA
• Kelly Steffen: 2019 Gilder Lehrman Award, Vinton, IA

These outstanding teachers will spend the week exploring Unsung Hero stories, collaborating with fellow educators, and developing innovative classroom projects that inspire students to make a difference in their communities. The impact of the Fellowship extends far beyond one week, reaching thousands of students for years to come through meaningful, project-based learning experiences.

Celebrating Joyce’s Service

As Administrative Assistant and Docent, Joyce plays an important role in supporting staff, welcoming visitors, and sharing the stories of Unsung Heroes through tours of the Hall of Unsung Heroes. Her dedication, knowledge, and friendly presence have made a lasting impact on the Center, its visitors, and the educators and students we serve around the world.

Thank you, Joyce, for eight years of service to the LMC mission!

Source: Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes newsletter, June 18, 2026. The center is located at 1 South Main St., Fort Scott, KS 66701.

Johnna Stoffregen Named 

2026 National Lowell Milken Center Fellow

FORT SCOTT, KS – June 1, 2026 – The Lowell Milken Center (LMC) for Unsung Heroes in Fort Scott, Kansas, an international educational non-profit, has awarded its prestigious Fellowship to Johnna Stoffregen, visual art teacher at Andover Middle School in Kansas. Johnna will arrive in Fort Scott on June 21st for a week of collaboration with LMC staff and the other members of the Fellowship.

The LMC Fellowship is a merit-based award for educators of all disciplines who value teaching respect and understanding through project-based learning. The Center selects exemplary teachers from the United States and around the world who will collaborate on projects that discover, develop, and communicate the stories of Unsung Heroes in history.

Johnna Stoffregen, a visual art teacher from Andover Middle School in Andover, Kansas, has been recognized as a 2023-2024 ARTEFFECT Ambassador. Mrs. Stoffregen’s award-winning art program empowers students to use art as a tool for self-discovery and communication. Young artists are encouraged to take risks and solve complex problems using critical thinking skills essential for life beyond the art studio.

Within her district, Mrs. Stoffregen serves as the Professional Learning Community Coordinator for the district’s visual arts team, organizing professional learning and fostering communication between teachers and district administration. She also founded an International Travel Program, providing opportunities for students and families to immerse themselves in global learning. Mrs. Stoffregen provides professional development for adults as well as students by presenting at a variety of conferences and workshops featuring the state standards, arts integration, and project-based learning.

LMC Executive Director Norm Conard says, “Johnna’s experience as an ARTEFFECT Ambassador and appreciation of the unsung heroes whose selfless lives have profoundly impacted history will be a perfect fit with our dynamic 2026 team of Fellows.”

While in Fort Scott, LMC Fellows gain knowledge, educational resources, and support in helping students cultivate a passion for learning by creating projects that initiate positive change. Fellows will be equipped to develop Unsung Heroes projects with their students, applying and evaluating the stories of these role models who have changed the world throughout history.