NEWS
Media Contact
Alexander Mann
alexander-mann@ou.edu
(405) 325-0598
Date
NORMAN, Okla. – The Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History at the University of Oklahoma recently celebrated the 25th anniversary of its current building’s public opening, as well as its impact on the university, state and beyond.
The Sam Noble Museum unveiled a state-of-the-art building on May 1, 2000, transforming the way Oklahoma’s designated natural history museum preserved and studied the objects in its care. Designed to house expansive collections ranging from dinosaur fossils and Native American artifacts to biological specimens, the facility set a new standard for museums, educational institutions and research facilities in Oklahoma.
“The building was conceived as a renewed commitment to protecting the natural and cultural treasures of Oklahoma,” said Museum Director Janet Braun, Ph.D. “As we celebrated 25 years at the Sam Noble Museum, we honored the legacy of Director Emeritus Dr. Michael Mares, as well as the citizens, donors and advocates who fought so passionately to preserve the state’s history and see this building constructed. At the same time, we reaffirm our dedication to pushing the boundaries of research, student mentorship, education and community engagement into the future.”
Since its opening, more than three million visitors have marveled at its dynamic exhibits, interactive displays, and immersive educational programs, all aimed at fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural and cultural world.
The museum celebrated the milestone with themed Curiousidays, the institution’s signature family event series that brings hands-on activities and chances to explore the museum in all new ways. The celebrations also included special anniversary free days and giveaways such as family memberships, gift cards, t-shirts and limited-edition dinosaur piggy banks.
To learn more about the 25th anniversary celebration and read special stories from members, visit samnoblemuseum.ou.edu.
About the University of Oklahoma
Founded in 1890, the University of Oklahoma is a public research university located in Norman, Oklahoma. As the state’s flagship university, OU serves the educational, cultural, economic and health care needs of the state, region and nation. For more information about the university, visit www.ou.edu.
The University of Oklahoma has received a transformative gift from Jon and Shannon McCartney, which will name the McCartney Family Tunnel of Champions, the McCartney Family Gate of the Gaylord Family - Oklahoma Memorial Stadium and the McCartney Family Grand Lecture Hall in the Michael F. Price College of Business. The gift will also support the Inspiring Champions and the Athletic Director’s Discretionary Fund, in addition to establishing the McCartney DFW Career Trek program at Price College.
The University of Oklahoma today celebrated the opening of a new air traffic control tower at the OU Max Westheimer Airport. Standing 106 feet tall, more than double the current 52-foot facility, the new tower will modernize air traffic control operations and improve safety for pilots and students operating in the airspace.
Do I buy groceries or pay the electric bill? Should I pawn some of my belongings to afford my prescription? My child is sick, so I will have to miss work to take care of him. Those are just a few of the difficult choices that OU-Tulsa health professional students confronted during the Community Access to Resources Experience. The role-playing activity challenged students to navigate the financial, family and other pressures that can affect a person’s health and ability to follow medical advice. Held annually during the SCM Institute orientation week, the experience is designed to generate understanding and build empathy.
