AR SR21

Mid-America Science Museum first opened January 20, 1979, and was dedicated by then-Governor Bill Clinton on April 22, 1979, with the mission to stimulate science interest and promote lifelong science education through interactive exhibits and programs.

Museum received the "Henry Award" from the Governor's Conference on Tourism in 1982, the "Parent's Choice" award for Best Museum for Families in 1995, and became a Smithsonian Affiliate in 2001 as the first institution in Arkansas to receive this honor.

Museum closed in August 2014 for its first major renovation and expansion since opening, funded by a $7.8 million grant from the Donald W. Reynolds Foundation and a major donation from the Oaklawn Foundation in 2013.

Museum reopened March 7, 2015, with new features including the Oaklawn Foundation Digital Dome Theater, Bob Wheeler Science Skywalk, Inventors Workshop gallery, and continued partnership with NASA for space education programs.

Senate celebrates the museum's reopening and recognizes its contributions to the Arkansas community, with resolution copies to be presented to Executive Director Diane LaFollette and Board leadership.