History is full of heroes whose stories deserve to be told. Through the Discovery Award, students in grades 4–12 bring these untold stories to life, showing how one person’s courage, compassion, or innovation can shape history.
Entries for the 2026 Discovery Award are open now, and there’s no better time for teachers and students to begin their projects. Whether it’s a documentary, performance, or website, each project shines a light on an individual whose impact still resonates today.
When drug manufacturers rushed to release thalidomide in the 1960s, Dr. Frances Kelsey stood firm — refusing to approve the drug without sufficient testing. Her persistence prevented thousands of birth defects in the U.S. and led to sweeping reforms in drug safety regulations.
Her story was brought to life by Harmony Yan-Li, a student from Irvine High School in California, whose documentary, Turning from Tragedy: The Unsung Story of Frances Kelsey and the Thalidomide Scandal, earned the 2024 Discovery Award Grand Prize.
Harmony’s project illustrates how one person’s courage and determination can protect millions — and how young researchers continue to uncover powerful stories that change how we view history. Watch the documentary →
In the News: Discovery Award Success Stories
Inspiration in Action!
When Kindergarten teacher Amanda Deabler visited the Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes during the Kansas Leads Conference, she was inspired to bring the idea of Unsung Heroes to her youngest learners at Cessna Elementary in Wichita, KS.
That spark turned into something incredible. Amanda shared her project idea on the Kidd Kraddick Morning Show, and they awarded her $500 to make it happen!
We can’t wait to see how her students discover their own Unsung Heroes in their school and community.
Inspiration truly multiplies when stories of courage and compassion are shared.
Staff Spotlight: Kayla Cannon
As an Administrative Assistant and Docent at the Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes, Kayla supports staff, gives engaging tours of the Hall of Unsung Heroes, and helps share the Center’s mission with visitors near and far.
A graduate of Pittsburg State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Kayla brings creativity and warmth to everything she does.
Outside of work, she enjoys staying busy with her husband and their three children. We’re so grateful for Kayla’s positivity and the energy she brings to the Center every day!
Each year, thousands of visitors walk through the doors of the Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes—and they leave inspired. From teachers and students to lifelong learners, guests share how meaningful and powerful the Unsung Hero stories are. Their remarks are just a glimpse of the impact the Center is making.
Want to experience it for yourself? Schedule a group tour or plan your visit today! Call us at 620-223-1312 or email: nconard@lowellmilkencenter.org for more information.
Follow Along for More Inspiring Stories
Stay connected as we share more interviews with Discovery Award-winning students and educators, introduce new Unsung Heroes, and celebrate the projects bringing history to life.
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Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes · 1 South Main St · Fort Scott, KS 66701 · USA
