North American Bison Discovery Center to honor Chris Mikkelson – Jamestown Sun

JAMESTOWN — The North American Bison Discovery Center (formerly known as the National Buffalo Museum) announces an upcoming event to honor the enduring legacy of one of its founders, Chris Mikkelson. Mikkelson dedicated 32 years of service to the museum’s board of directors. This special occasion will coincide with the center’s annual meeting, providing the community with an opportunity to celebrate the past, present and future of this North Dakota institution.

The open house will be held from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, May 28 at the North American Bison Discovery Center, 500 17th St. SE. Jamestown. Visitors will have the chance to explore the museum’s exhibits. No registration is required for this event; it is open to all and entry is free.

In 1991, Jamestown leaders founded the North Dakota Buffalo Foundation with a mission to share the story of the bison. Their efforts led to the creation of the National Bison Museum, located next to the largest bison monument in the world. In June 1993, the museum opened its doors, thanks to the dedication of the founding board members, including bison ranchers, who secured its location and acquired its first bison from Theodore Roosevelt National Park. One such figure was Mikkelson, recipient of the museum’s second Founder’s Award in 2023.

“We are privileged to commemorate Chris and his impact on the North American Bison Discovery Center,” said IIana Xinos, executive director of the center. “His foresight and unwavering commitment to our mission played a central role in transforming our museum into the beacon of cultural significance that it is today.” As we honor his legacy, we look forward to embarking on new ventures and sharing our vision for the future with the community.”

The open house will be followed by the museum’s annual meeting, which will also be open to the public and will be held from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Wednesday, May 29. Those wishing to attend in person will be able to do so at the Harold Newman Arena at the University of Jamestown. . Live streaming will also be available.

To register for the Annual Meeting, attendees should visit https://nabdc.eventbrite.com. This event marks an important milestone as the center celebrates its name change, honors the museum’s legacy and shares its future plans with community members.

Refreshments will be served at both events.

The North American Bison Discovery Center is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization whose mission is to inspire new learning about bison with every visit, to advocate for bison restoration through education and awareness.

For more information about the center, visit www.bisoncenter.org.