Mayan Mystery Hosted by University of Arkansas Center for Math and Science Education

Mystery Mayan Medallion - The Secrets of the Ancient World Await

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. - An archeological team has disappeared from a dig site at an ancient Mayan temple in Palenque, Mexico. The scientists were investigating rumors of a priceless jade medallion buried in the ruins. Something horrifying apparently scared them off, but they managed to leave behind a video with clues and a warning to all who come after. Who can solve the puzzle, find the treasure and avoid the fate of the unfortunate archeologists?

That's the challenge children, parents and teachers face in "The Mystery of the Mayan Medallion," an immersive exhibit developed by the Arkansas Discovery Network and presented by the University of Arkansas Center for Mathematics and Science Education. The exhibit will be on display from Monday, Jan. 7, through March 8 at the Joy Pratt Markham Gallery of the Walton Arts Center in Fayetteville.

"We are very excited about this particular exhibit. Everyone likes a good 'who done it' and this experience blends just the right amount of mystery into real science and history," said Lynne Hehr, director of the Center for Math and Science Education. "This exhibit uses the mystery and intrigue of the Mayan empire to explore math, science and history in a way that's sure to capture the imagination of everyone who visits."

The exhibit is making its way across the state thanks to the Arkansas Discovery Network, a network of seven discovery center partners funded by the Donald W. Reynolds Foundation. The Arkansas Discovery Network works to strengthen partner museums by sharing resources and expanding discovery learning opportunities throughout the state. Member museums include the Museum of Discovery in Little Rock, Mid-America Science Museum in Hot Springs, Arts and Science Center for Southeast Arkansas in Pine Bluff, Texarkana Museum System in Texarkana, Arkansas Museum of Natural Resources in Smackover, Arkansas State University Museum in Jonesboro and the University of Arkansas Center for Mathematics and Science Education in Fayetteville.

The Donald W. Reynolds Foundation, headquartered in Las Vegas, is a national philanthropic organization founded in 1954 by the late media entrepreneur for whom it is named. The Foundation is one of the 50 largest private foundations in the United States.

Note: This event is being presented by the University of Arkansas Center for Mathematics and Science Education. Walton Arts Center serves as the location of the event and is not responsible for content of the programming. All questions regarding the event should be directed to the University of Arkansas Center for Math and Science Education or the Arkansas Discovery Network. For school or group reservations, call 479-575-3875.

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Lynne Hehr, director
Center for Math and Science Education
(479) 575-3875, lhehr@uark.edu

Steve Voorhies, manager of media relations
University Relations
(479) 575-3583, voorhies@uark.edu