July 15, 2017 – What a day to be at Discovery Park of America! On November 4, the one and only Miss America 2017, Savvy Shields, had the red carpet rolled out for her as she stepped foot inside the multi-million dollar educational facility in Union City. She was awestruck by the size and the quality of the exhibits, and the fact that it was located in rural Tennessee. She was given a quick tour through the galleries inside Discovery Center, and then whisked up to the very top of The Tower to observe the 50-acre park and also see STEM Landing where she would be speaking to the children. She was very impressed to say the least. She said, “This place has already inspired me, and I have only been here for 20 minutes!”

Miss America then walked gracefully out to meet and greet the children and guests that were patiently waiting for her to speak. Among the crowd were a few 4th grade children who had grown up through the Promethean Foundation program, which is a local scholarship program started by Robert and Jenny Kirkland in 2004. The Promethean Foundation’s vision is “to see every child have the opportunity to reach learning potential from birth.” Children ages six weeks through kindergarten are eligible for these scholarships. Every childcare center in Obion County is a special part in the Promethean Foundation, and children who attend these centers are brought up knowing the six character virtues set by the Promethean Foundation: Caring, Honesty, Integrity, Respect, Responsibility, and Self-Discipline. It was a special moment to have these children at the park and for them to meet Miss America. Education has and will always be the priority at Discovery Park of America, and it continues with the Promethean Foundation as well. Miss America was excited to hear about what a great program is here in Union City, and that this wonderful facility is here as well.