A ‘Life-Changing Experience’: 2023 Fellows Explore LMC’s Unsung Heroes

Lesley Snyder (SC ’21)
Teacher in residence, Evolving SC | University of South Carolina | Irmo, SC

Fort Scott is steeped in history. The city comes from a crucible of conflict that shaped American history and has embraced the challenges of growth and transformation. At the crossroads of Wall and Main Streets stands LMC, which serves as a tribute to the remarkable tales of Unsung Heroes: ordinary individuals whose unwavering commitment against injustice has altered the course of history. These stories, emblematic of the profound impact one person can wield, stand as a testament that even the faintest echo can create ripples of change.

Being an LMC Fellow was a transformative experience. From the LMC staff to the welcoming locals, warm smiles and open arms made me feel like I had always belonged here. The speakers bubbled with insights and tools, generously equipping us to share with colleagues. We delved into the entire process of crafting a classroom Unsung Hero project, from inception to completion. Researching connections for students and myself opened a floodgate of ideas. The echoes of inspiration will linger in my mind forever.

My Fellows group included five other diverse and incredibly accomplished women. We bonded over the hard but necessary work of inspiring today’s youth and formed a cohort determined to create change. I am especially grateful to have met Kate Molodyk, a Fellow from Ukraine. Her global perspective and touching stories continue to inspire me to be the best version of myself.

Just being among the amazing stories and student-created artwork at LMC is an experience. Walking through the museum allowed me to really be present as I let the whispers of Unsung Heroes who would have otherwise been lost in the sands of time wash over me. I was also delighted to visit the Gordon Parks Museum, Fort Scott National Cemetery and Fort Scott National Historic Site.

I plan to push the LMC Fellow work into the minds of future teachers at the University of South Carolina College of Education. In the future, I hope to use my LMC experience to ignite flames of student-guided learning in as many teachers as I can.