Union City, Tenn.–Discovery Park of America recently hosted the annual conference for the Tennessee Association of Museums (TAM), welcoming museum professionals from across the state for three days of collaboration, learning and networking.
Museum leaders, educators and volunteers participated in educational sessions, panel discussions and behind-the-scenes experiences designed to strengthen museum practices and community engagement.
Evening networking events, including a tour of Discovery Park’s 100,000-square-foot museum and 50-acre heritage park, provided additional opportunities for collaboration and idea-sharing.
During the TAM Awards Ceremony, Discovery Park was recognized with four awards highlighting excellence in fundraising, programming, exhibits and volunteerism during 2025.
Discovery Park received a 2026 Award of Commendation for its fundraising campaign, “Dueling Pianos for the Kirkland Scholarship Fund,” which supports access to the museum for students across the region.
The organization also earned a 2026 Award of Commendation for public programming for its “David Crockett Homestead and Heritage Day,” an event that brings history to life through immersive experiences and educational activities.
In addition, Discovery Park received a 2026 Award of Excellence in the Audio Visual – Exhibit Component category for the restoration of its 1913 locomotive, a project that enhances the interpretation of transportation history within the museum.
A second Award of Excellence recognized J.C. Stahlman’s Living Historians for their volunteer work at Discovery Park, honoring the group’s continued commitment to engaging guests through interactive, educational experiences.
“Hosting this year’s conference gave us a valuable opportunity to connect with museum professionals from across Tennessee and showcase the work happening here in West Tennessee,” said Jennifer Wildes Hunter, senior director of collections and exhibits at Discovery Park and a board member of the Tennessee Association of Museums. “We are especially honored to be recognized alongside so many organizations and individuals who are committed to preserving and sharing history in meaningful ways.”
Photo: From left, Michael Larkin, director of education at Discovery Park of America,; Sarah Griffin, president of the Tennessee Association of Museums; and Jennifer Wildes Hunter, senior director of collections and exhibits at Discovery Park of America and board member for the Tennessee Association of Museums during the TAM annual conference.