April 1, 2009

The Michigan History Foundation is now accepting nominations for the 2009 Odyssey Award, given annually to up to three exceptional teachers of Michigan history. Award recipients will receive a $500 cash prize and an engraved plaque at special recognition ceremonies. Nomination forms are available online at www.michigan.gov/odysseyawards or by calling the foundation office at (517) 373-2565.

"We've all had one - the teacher who made history in our life. The outstanding teachers who make a difference in students' lives every day are key to successful education," Michigan History Foundation Director Pat Clark said. "It's important to recognize these educators who go the extra mile to inspire our students and help prepare them for the future."

All Michigan history educators are eligible for the award. Nominees will be judged on their depth of knowledge about Michigan history, their leadership in teaching others about Michigan history and their creative teaching methods. The deadline for nominations is Aug. 3.

"We ask award recipients to share their winning ideas and expertise with other educators across the state," said Clark. "In this way, the Odyssey program also promotes creative teaching methods that get students excited about learning and foster their interest in Michigan history."

Special recognition ceremonies will be held in each winning teacher's school district. The recipients also will be recognized at the Michigan History Foundation's annual fundraising event, The Jingle Ball, on Saturday, Nov. 21 at the Michigan Historical Museum in Lansing. The Jingle Ball supports the Michigan Historical Museum's award-winning education programs that help more than 70,000 Michigan students each year explore their state's history.

The Michigan History Foundation is a private, not-for-profit organization that supports the work of the Michigan Historical Center. The center includes the Michigan Historical Museum, 11 regional museums and historic sites, the Archives of Michigan, Records Management Services, archaeological and historic preservation programs, and publications, including Michigan History magazine. Learn more about the foundation at www.michigan.gov/mhfoundation.

The Michigan Historical Center is part of the Department of History, Arts and Libraries (HAL), whose mission is to enrich quality of life and strengthen the economy by providing access to information, preserving and promoting Michigan heritage, and fostering cultural creativity. The department also includes the Library of Michigan, the Mackinac Island State Park Commission, the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs, and the Michigan Film Office. For more information about HAL, visit www.michigan.gov/hal.

Read more press releases from the Department of History, Arts and Libraries (HAL).