April 3, 2008

The Michigan Historical Center Foundation is now accepting nominations for the 2008 Odyssey Award, given annually to up to three exceptional teachers of Michigan history.  Award recipients will receive a $500 cash gift and an engraved plaque at special recognition ceremonies. Nomination forms are available on the Odyssey Web site at www.michigan.gov/jingleball.

"Dedicated educators across the state are finding creative ways to bring Michigan's past to life and instill a passion for learning in their students," said Michigan Historical Center Foundation Director Pat Clark.  "It's important to recognize these outstanding teachers who are making a difference in children's lives and to spread the word about how they're fostering students' interest in Michigan history."

All Michigan history educators are eligible for the award. Nominees will be judged on their depth of knowledge about Michigan history, leadership in teaching others about Michigan history, and their creative teaching methods.  The deadline for nominations is Aug. 1.

Award recipients will be invited to attend the 2008 Jingle Ball at the Michigan Historical Center on Saturday, Nov. 22 and will be asked to share their ideas and expertise with other educators across the state. Special recognition ceremonies will be held in each winning teacher's school district.  The Jingle Ball, the Michigan Historical Center Foundation's annual fundraising event, supports the award-winning education programs of the Michigan Historical Museum that inspire more than 80,000 Michigan students each year to explore their state's history.

The Michigan Historical Center Foundation is a private, not-for-profit organization that supports the work of the Michigan Historical Center. The center includes the Michigan Historical Museum, 11 regional museums and historic sites, the Archives of Michigan, Records Management Services, archaeological and historic preservation programs, and publications, including Michigan History magazine.

The Michigan Historical Center is part of the Department of History, Arts and Libraries (HAL), whose mission is to enrich quality of life and strengthen the economy by providing access to information, preserving and promoting Michigan heritage, and fostering cultural creativity. The department also includes the Library of Michigan, the Mackinac Island State Park Commission, the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs, and the Michigan Film Office. For more information about HAL, visit www.michigan.gov/hal.

Read more press releases from the Department of History, Arts and Libraries (HAL).