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: nconard@lowellmilkencenter.org
- 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.