The new science center in Joplin now has an official name: the Schroeder Family Exploreum. This announcement was made by the Creative Learning Alliance during an unveiling ceremony on Friday morning. The center will be housed in the old Joplin Library building.
The name was selected from a list of 64 potential names, which was narrowed down to three before the final decision was made by the nonprofit’s board of directors. The naming rights were made possible by a generous one-million dollar donation from local developer Rick Schroeder.
According to Audie Dennis, the Creative Learning Alliance Board President, this is a significant day for the community. Thanks to the support of the Schroeder family and others in the community, the naming of the new facility could be announced. The Creative Learning Alliance has set a fundraising goal of $6.5 million, with $1.7 million already pledged. The goal is to open the Schroeder Family Exploreum in 2025.