PUBLIC, COMMUNITY AND RESEARCH ENGAGEMENT WITH THE THOMAS A. GREENE GEOLOGICAL COLLECTION, THE FIRST U.S. COLLECTION RECOGNIZED AS AN INTERNATIONAL GEOHERITAGE COLLECTION

The Thomas A. Greene Geological Museum collection at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee was awarded a prestigious distinction in 2024 as the first geological collection in the western hemisphere to be recognized by the International Union of Geological Sciences (IUGS) Sub commission on Geo-Collections, as a geoheritage collection “of global importance because of its particularly high scientific, historical or educational relevance for geological sciences.” This distinction is earned due to the comprehensive and irreplaceable nature of the Silurian and Devonian fossils in the collection. This historic collection, which contains more than 65,000 fossils and minerals, and original archival materials, is associated with important scientific discoveries, notably Silurian reef fossils of the Midwest.

As this geoheritage distinction is notable to the geology and paleontology research communities, celebrated by the University and local and state media, and is anticipated to lead to digitization and research opportunities, it also provides an avenue for the community and public to engage in science and discovery. Public outreach events, using the Greene collection as a ‘centerpiece’, provide significant opportunities to tell a story to the community about how the hobby of a ‘gentleman paleontologist’ of Milwaukee in the 19^th century’ is inspiring and educating students, enthusiasts and scientists of the 21^st century. The most ambitious and captivating of these events is the 4^th annual Darwin Day celebration of science, community and history of Milwaukee, hosted by an enthusiastic group of science student volunteers and community partners. The opportunities presented by this geoheritage designation, combined with ongoing support from volunteers, the community and Greene family descendants, allow the geoscience educators of today to inspire the next generation of scientists and recruit more students into Earth science fields.