News

“AIM HIGH: SOARING WITH THE TUSKEGEE AIRMEN” EXHIBITION FEATURING “BLACK WINGS, AMERICAN DREAMS OF FLIGHT” MAKES DEBUT AT THE ECOTARIUM MUSEUM

Worcester, MA, October 17, 2023 – The EcoTarium Museum of Science and Nature announced today the national launch of the highly anticipated exhibition Aim High: Soaring with the Tuskegee Airmen will take place on October 21, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at the EcoTarium, 222 Harrington Way, Worcester, MA.

The EcoTarium is the first museum in the country to host this exhibition as it begins a national tour. The celebratory launch will feature special guest and Massachusetts’ own Brigadier General Enoch O’Dell “Woody” Woodhouse II, one of the last members of the all-Black World War II fighter pilot unit known as the Tuskegee Airmen.

Brigadier General Woodhouse offered his thoughts about the new exhibit. “Aim High: Soaring with the Tuskegee Airmen is a tribute to the pioneering spirit and unwavering determination of those who defied the odds to serve our nation,” said Woodhouse. “This exhibit is not just a reflection of the past; it’s an inspiration for the future. It shows that no dream is too high to reach.”

“This exhibit beautifully represents the contributions of so many African-American aviators, engineers, astronauts and scientists to our country and to aeronautics” said Noreen Johnson Smith, President and CEO of EcoTarium. “It is important for all of us to learn about this history and share these stories of patriotism, courage, dignity, perseverance and achievement particularly as we inspire youth to pursue their dreams.” 

Aim High: Soaring with the Tuskegee Airmen is a dynamic and interactive exhibition that offers a unique journey through aviation history and innovation. Created by Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh and Hosanna House, the exhibition beautifully weaves the inspiring legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen with contemporary STEM concepts, delivering an experience that resonates with visitors of all ages.

The exhibition features Black Wings, American Dreams of Flight, organized by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service (SITES) in collaboration with the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum. The exhibition was made possible by the generous support of MetLife Foundation. It chronicles the story of African Americans who, despite facing racial barriers, attained great achievements in the world of aviation.

The exhibition is locally sponsored by the Massachusetts Port Authority, David Clark Company, Inc., and UMass Chan Medical School. Aim High: Soaring with the Tuskegee Airmen will be on display at the EcoTarium until January 21, 2023.

“Massport and Worcester Regional Airport are proud to sponsor the new Tuskegee Airmen exhibition at the EcoTarium,” said Worcester Regional Airport Director Andy Davis. “The Tuskegee Airmen embody true patriotism and this exhibition honors their role as pioneers in military aviation who paved the way for future generations. We encourage the public to visit the exhibition and learn more about the contributions of the Tuskegee Airmen.”

Ché Anderson, Assistant Vice Chancellor for City and Community Relations at UMass Chan shared their perspective, “UMass Chan Medical School is proud to be part of the exhibition that honors the remarkable achievements of the Tuskegee Airmen. This collaboration aligns with our dedication to fostering education, diversity, and progress within our community.”  This event is open to all members of the community who share an interest in history, innovation, aviation, and STEM education. At the celebration, attendees will have the opportunity to be among the first in the country to explore the interactive elements of the exhibition and engage in hands-on activities that showcase the evolution of aviation.

For further details about the Aim High: Soaring with the Tuskegee Airmen exhibition, please visit EcoTarium’s website at https://ecotarium.org/exhibit/aim-high/.