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March 8, 2024                                                                                Volume 1

Celebrating Women’s History Month: Honoring Irena Sendler, an Unsung Hero

As we embrace the significance of March as Women’s History Month, we pay tribute to the remarkable women whose courage, resilience, and unwavering determination have shaped history. Among them stands Irena Sendler, a true Unsung Hero whose extraordinary acts of bravery serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration.

Irena Sendler, a Polish social worker, and her network of helpers, risked their lives to save hundreds of Jewish children during the Holocaust. Operating within the shadows of Nazi-occupied Warsaw, Sendler orchestrated daring rescue missions, smuggling children out of the Warsaw Ghetto and providing them with new identities and safe refuge. Her selfless actions exemplify the power of compassion and humanity in the face of unimaginable adversity.

Sendler’s story is even more compelling when you consider the journey of discovery that led to her recognition as an Unsung Hero. It was a group of young women from Uniontown High School in Kansas who stumbled upon Sendler’s story while working on a project for National History Day. Captivated by her bravery and resilience, they embarked on a mission to ensure that Sendler’s legacy was not forgotten.

The impact of their project led to the idea for the creation of the Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes, an organization dedicated to celebrating the unsung heroes of history and inspiring future generations to make a positive impact in their communities. Irena Sendler’s story served as the catalyst for this noble endeavor, reminding us that ordinary individuals have the power to change the world through acts of courage and compassion.

As we reflect on Women’s History Month, let us remember Irena Sendler and the countless unsung heroines whose contributions have shaped our world. May their stories serve as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and inspire us to strive for a future defined by empathy, equality, and justice for all.

Join us in celebrating Women’s History Month and honoring the extraordinary women who have left an indelible mark on history.

Discovery Award Updates

Join the 2024 Discovery Award Competition!

The 2024 Discovery Award Competition is here, offering students in grades 4-12 a chance to win prizes totaling $25,000. Sponsored by the Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes, this competition encourages students to discover and celebrate the stories of unsung heroes.

Key Details:

$25,000 in Prizes

Eligibility: Open to students in grades 4-12

Deadline: Submit projects by July 1, 2024

Mode: Performance, Website or Documentary

Submission Approval: Encourage students to submit topics soon.

(Although it is not required to enter the competition.)

Learn more: http://bit.ly/2wYZPiD.

This is a fantastic opportunity for your students to showcase their talents and explore the stories of unsung heroes. Share this with your students and integrate it into your curriculum.

Any questions? Reach out! Let’s inspire the next generation of storytellers!

Call: 620-223-1312

email: [email protected]

ARTEFFECT Updates

The submission period for the 2024 ARTEFFECT competition is open!  Show off your artistic talents and make an impact. Learn more and submit your entry at https://bit.ly/ArtEffect-Competition.

Fellows News and Updates

We’re happy to share that Megan Helberg from Nebraska, one of our outstanding 2021 LMC Fellows, has been honored as Educator of the Year by the Anne Frank Center at the University of South Carolina!

Megan’s dedication to her students and community shines brightly, and we couldn’t be prouder of her well-deserved recognition.

Learn more about Megan and her efforts to bring educational opportunities to her students and community. Check out the recognition video here: https://youtu.be/rvkrvwlaAuw?si=ASE8l5GNL7WVeZFM.

Join us in celebrating Lindsey Dowell, one of this year’s recipients of the prestigious Kansas Master Teacher award! Lindsey, who serves as the 7-8th Grade Gifted Facilitator at Washburn Rural Middle School in Topeka, has been recognized for her outstanding dedication to education.

In her classroom, Lindsey empowers her students to take control of their learning journey. Through her innovative teaching methods, she fosters an environment where students excel academically and socially. As a result, her students consistently demonstrate remarkable growth, surpassing expectations and setting a high standard for their peers.

Congratulations, Lindsey Dowell, on this well-deserved honor! Your commitment to excellence in education is an inspiration to us all.

LMC News and Updates

Our recent event, “African American Musicians in Kansas 1860-1920,” featured a captivating presentation by Lem Sheppard. The event, sponsored by the Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes, The Gordon Parks Museum and Humanities Kansas, celebrated the life and accomplishments of James Reese Europe, one of the founders of Ragtime and Jazz and a true Unsung Hero. Delving into the vibrant musical heritage of historic Fort Scott, Sheppard highlighted the pivotal role played by musicians like James Reese Europe, who left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of the era.

Attendees had the opportunity to immerse themselves in history while enjoying a delightful soup luncheon accompanied by soulful melodies courtesy of the Fort Scott High School Jazz Band, under the direction of Justin Robinson. The event provided a unique experience, allowing guests to step back in time and partake in a cakewalk, reminiscent of a bygone era.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all who joined us in celebrating this enriching journey through Kansas’ musical past. Stay tuned for more exciting events to come!

Step into spring with an unforgettable visit to the Lowell Milken Center! As the season blossoms, we invite groups of all ages to explore our inspiring exhibits and engage in enriching educational experiences. Whether you’re planning a field trip for students, a group tour for history enthusiasts, or a team-building outing, the Lowell Milken Center offers a perfect destination. Come discover the stories of Unsung Heroes and be inspired by their remarkable journeys. Contact us today to schedule your visit and make memories that will last a lifetime!