Spark! Luncheon 2026

“Spark! Igniting a Passion for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math” is the Museum of Discovery’s signature fundraising event! At the Spark! Luncheon we honor “Spark! Stars,” Arkansans with successful careers in STEM fields. These Stars showcase opportunity right here in our state for STEM careers that inspire the next generation. All proceeds directly support the Museum of Discovery. Ticket sales make a direct impact on programs Science For All, Girls in STEM, statewide outreach, and in museum programming. Our 2026 Spark Co-Chairs are: James Hendren and Anita Smith Our 2026 Spark Stars are: Cody Waits, Arkansas Department of Commerce, Arkansas Division of Workforce Services Dr. Nirvana Manning, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Service Line Director for UAMS Women’s Health Larry “Coach” Clark, Life Skills for Youth Dr. Christina Drale, University of Arkansas at Little Rock Uday Akkaraju, BOND.AI Patrick Schroeder, Baldwin and Shell Construction Company Earl Mott, Garver