The Milwaukee Public Museum (MPM) is proud to announce that Herb Kohl Philanthropies has provided a $2 million gift to the Future Museum’s Wisconsin Wonders capital campaign, in part to create the Herb Kohl Education Fund, which will provide Wisconsin educators with free memberships to the Future Museum for its first three years.

“Herb Kohl left behind a powerful legacy in Wisconsin, including his commitment to education, especially for teachers who help young people discover the true joy of learning,” said Herb Kohl Philanthropies President & CEO JoAnne Anton.

“As we approach Teacher Appreciation Week, May 5-11, we are proud to provide a gift that will ensure our educators have the tools and the access they need to leverage the valuable resources the Future Museum will offer. This will be a monumental, one-of-a-kind institution, building on its own legacy of educational impact while setting new standards for visitor learning opportunities.”

In addition to free memberships, the Museum’s new Herb Kohl Education Fund creates regular opportunities for educators to connect with the Museum and explore how its educational offerings can be maximized as a resource for students from all over Wisconsin.

“I firmly believe the Museum’s collaboration with educators across the state is essential to fulfilling our mission of inspiring curiosity, exciting minds and increasing desire to preserve and protect our world's natural and cultural diversity,” said MPM President & CEO Dr. Ellen Censky.

“We are humbled by Herb Kohl Philanthropies’ donation of $2 million and honored that Herb Kohl’s legacy will continue through the Future Museum. Together, we have a priceless opportunity to create deeper connections with educators across the state and help teachers enhance their curriculum.”

Herb Kohl made an everlasting impact on our state, from growing up in Milwaukee’s Sherman Park neighborhood, leading in business and public service, to keeping the Bucks in Milwaukee. He also invested in early childhood and K-12 education and prioritized protecting and helping young people reach their fullest potential. Kohl started the Herb Kohl Educational Foundation in 1990, which has provided nearly $38 million in grants and scholarships to Wisconsin students, teachers and schools.

Herb Kohl Philanthropies joins a group of more than 300 donors who’ve contributed $80 million to the Wisconsin Wonders campaign as well as the State of Wisconsin and Milwaukee County, which have given a combined $85 million to support the Future Museum project. The Museum is 70 percent of the way toward achieving its total campaign goal with three years left to raise funds.

More information about the Future Museum, including details about the Wisconsin Wonders capital campaign, is available on the MPM website.