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About

Our vision is to engage people of all ages in hands-on learning, driven by curiosity and play.

Our mission is to create a hands-on, STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) based attraction that exercises curiosity, promotes exploration, and develops imagination through interactivity.

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Our Board

Audie Dennis

Audie Dennis

Board President, Retired (Boyd Metals)

Stephanie Bradshaw

Stephanie Bradshaw

Board Vice-President, Freeman Health System Speech and Language Pathologist

Shelly Kraft

Shelly Kraft

Board Treasurer, Kraft Insurance

Kitty Ward

Kitty Ward

Board Secretary, Retired Educator

Paula Baker

Paula Baker

Board Member, Freeman Health System

Chad Greer

Chad Greer

Board Member, CGA Architects

Joe Malin

Joe Malin

Board Member, Liberty Utilities

Logan Stanley

Logan Stanley

Board Member, Edward Jones Advisors

Jamie Strickland

Jamie Strickland

Board Member, Southwest Missouri Bank

Clive Veri

Clive Veri

Board Member, Commerce Bank

Our Beginnings

The Creative Learning Alliance was built from the Vision 2022 Quality of Life Destination Committee. In May 2017, Vision Joplin 2022 presented several recommendations to the city council. These recommendations were compiled by nearly 150 community members serving on various committees: governance, health and wellness, job growth, marketing and branding, and quality of life.

Among these ideas, one concept that was well received and supported by City Council was that of a children’s museum. Since then, a group of professionals, concerned citizens and educators have been exploring, and actively pursuing, the creation of a hands-on, STEAM-based attraction.

Our Progress

  • The Creative Learning Alliance has registered as a Missouri business entity, elected officers, and received nonprofit status.
  • Developed a mission and vision statement.
  • Raised funds to conduct a feasibility study, In October 2018, CLA held a public input session at Joplin Public Library to gauge area interest in the project.
  • The board contracted with ConsultEcon, a highly recommended firm providing market, economic, business and planning services to the museum sector. ConsultEcon conducted a professional feasibility study, which assessed the community’s ability to support and sustain such a project.
  • The Outreach Committee created approximately 15 entertaining and interactive exhibits to be used as educational and promotional pieces at events.
  • The organization contracted with a Project Coordinator who will work towards brand identity, building donor relations, and social media development.

In the News

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