Scott Family makes $10.3M Gift to Amazeum
“We hope this gift will inspire others to give to the Amazeum as they expand and reflect the needs of the community.” - Lee Scott
The Scott Family Amazeum is thrilled to announce a momentous $10.35 million gift from the Scott family. Lee and Linda Scott’s gift makes an impactful and transformative legacy for the next phase of the Amazeum. The generous donation is from the Scott family, led by former Walmart CEO Lee Scott and his wife Linda, alongside their son Eric Scott and wife Elda, and son Wyatt Scott and his wife Janell. The gift was announced on Thursday, May 11, 2023, at a special gathering at the Amazeum.
“The Amazeum has had a tremendous impact on our family, and we believe in the importance of investing in its future,” said Scott. "Through this ongoing commitment to the Amazeum, we are investing in the next generation of thinkers, innovators, and leaders - ensuring that the Amazeum continues to inspire and educate future generations,” continued Scott.
This significant contribution from the Scott family comes after a series of conversations with the Northwest Arkansas community, which identified opportunities to further support early learners and their caregivers, expand STEAM education initiatives throughout the region, and create new, innovative spaces and programs for pre-teens, teens, and adults. The Scott family's gift is a direct response to these community needs and will serve as a catalyst for further expansion of the Amazeum.
"We are so grateful for the leadership and ongoing support from the Scott Family," said Sam Dean, executive director at the Amazeum. Since the inception of the museum, Lee and Linda have been strong advocates for STEAM-based education and inspiring children and adults to learn, create, and explore.
Eric Scott, said, “The next phase of growth will complement the nearby Crystal Bridges nature trails and Orchards Park, creating an exciting outdoor destination for the Northwest Arkansas region.”
Additionally, plans for a 5,000 square foot community gathering building and a dedicated space for early learners will further enhance the Amazeum's campus. Scott continued, “We hope this gift will inspire others to give to the Amazeum as they expand and reflect the needs of the community.”
Since its opening in 2015 the Scott Family Amazeum has become a leader in providing STEAM-based exhibits, programs, and curriculum training for teachers. It has also been a driving force in the maker-ecosystem throughout the state and a foundation for lifelong learning for toddlers and their caregivers.
"We at the Amazeum continue to explore how we can impact more of our community," added Sam Dean. The Scott family's generous gift will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the Amazeum and the community it serves. The Amazeum expresses its deepest gratitude to the Scott family for their unwavering support and commitment to the museum's mission.
“We hope this gift will inspire others to give to the Amazeum as they expand and reflect the needs of the community.” - Lee Scott
