On February 29, a delegation from the Linda Hall Library attended the University of Missouri-Kansas City's annual Vanguard Awards celebration. The School of Science and Engineering at UMKC established the Vanguard Awards to recognize exceptional alumni and supporters who have shown outstanding commitment and dedication to the school. The awards acknowledge professional accomplishments, service to the community and university and commitment to STEM education in the Kansas City region.

Dr. Eric Dorfman, President of the Linda Hall Library, accepted the 2023 STEM Outreach Partner of the Year award on the Library's behalf. This award is presented to an individual, organization or company that has demonstrated exemplary support for K-12 STEM initiatives. Past awardees of this award include the Kauffman Foundation, Prep KC, Robin Stubenhofer and Google Fiber.

STEM Educator Resources

The Library is dedicated to supporting innovative and creative teaching by promoting access to our collections to STEM educators. Our Reference librarians curate items from our expansive holdings to provide easy access for teachers and designed to aid in the delivery of STEM curriculum.

How Do I Become?

Beyond our stacks, our How Do I Become? series connects students with professionals in STEM fields. This monthly series is designed for high school and early college students interested in STEM careers. Topics include coursework, internships, college programs, and becoming a successful STEM professional. During these interactive sessions, students have an opportunity to get academic and career advice from young professionals.

Led by moderator Erik Timpson, Principal Electrical Engineer - Quality Assurance Engineer, Honeywell, the panelists shared their educational and career experience working in STEM fields.

In October 2023, we partnered with the School of Science and Engineering at UMKC for an in-person How Do I Become? event. Attendees heard from a panel of early career scientists and learned about programs at the SSE. The panel discussion was followed by activities hosted by UMKC.

We are grateful to our neighbor and partner, UMKC, for this recognition and look forward to continuing to work together to advance education in science and engineering in Kansas City.

We are honored to be in the extraordinary company of our fellow 2023 Vanguard Award winners:

• Dr. Gharib Gharibi, Young Alumni Award
• Capital Electric Construction, Company of the Year
• Katy Howard and Andy Cole, Supporters of the Year