#United States #scholarship fund #Union City #Discovery Park #Kirkland Foundation

Robert E. and Jenny D. Discovery Awards Gala

On March 21, 2026, the Discovery Park of America set the stage for a remarkable gathering, bringing together over 200 influential figures including thought leaders, policymakers, and philanthropic donors. This significant event, known as the Robert E. and Jenny D. Kirkland Discovery Awards Gala, aimed to honor individuals who have made a notable impact in their communities while also supporting the educational mission of the park. The gala plays a pivotal role in funding the Kirkland Scholarship Fund, which provides cultural and educational access for students from underserved backgrounds.

A Celebration of Inspiration

Engaging speeches characterized the event, highlighting the contributions of this year's honorees: Allison DeMarcus, Mike Cox, and Lee Marshall. Each honoree captivated the audience with reflections on their nonprofit endeavors and their determination to uplift their communities. Scott Williams, the president and CEO of Discovery Park of America, underscored the event’s mission, stating, "At its core, Discovery Park exists to inspire children and adults to see beyond. Where you start does not define where you can go."

Reflecting the theme of Tennessee America 250, the attendees donned patriotic attire and savored an array of themed dishes. The atmosphere was further enlivened by live performances from the Jackson Symphony, and guests even had the unique opportunity to take photos with actors portraying historical figures like John and Abigail Adams, as well as Thomas and Martha Jefferson.

Impacting Lives Through Education

The significant funds raised during the gala are crucial for the Kirkland Scholarship Fund, which successfully provided access to educational experiences for over 13,500 students in 2025 alone. The park welcomed more than 275,000 visitors last year, including 5,000 guests who utilized the SNAP benefits program to enjoy the facilities at a reduced cost. This outreach has been instrumental in the park’s mission of offering educational opportunities to children and adults from various socioeconomic backgrounds.

In addition, Discovery Park has contributed to the community by donating $24,000 in tickets to approximately 200 nonprofit organizations in 2025, maximizing their reach and promoting educational access across the region. A recent impact report indicated that the park generated nearly $40 million in visitor spending, which benefitted the local economy.

Continuing the Legacy

The Discovery Awards Gala is more than just an event; it is a symbol of commitment to improving educational access and inspiring future generations. For those wishing to support the Kirkland Scholarship Fund or to learn how they can contribute to expanding the initiative’s outreach, more information is readily available at Discovery Park's official website.

About Discovery Park of America

Discovery Park of America is a renowned museum and heritage park located in Union City, Tennessee. Encompassing a vast 100,000-square-foot museum with interactive exhibit galleries and a 50-acre heritage park, its mission is to inspire curiosity and depth of understanding among visitors of all ages. Established as a 501(c)(3) public charity, it relies heavily on the support of individuals, corporations, and foundations, with the Robert E. and Jenny D. Kirkland Foundation being its principal benefactor. For more details, visit Discovery Park of America.