Murfreesboro, TN – Earlier this year, the Nissan Foundation named the Discovery Center at Murfree Spring as a 2024 grant recipient. The Nissan Foundation grant will help fund the Discovery Center’s Cultural Heritage Free Day Program, which is aimed at celebrating the diversity of Murfreesboro and the surrounding communities.

“The generous support from the Nissan Foundation has been instrumental in making our Cultural Heritage Free Day Program a reality,” said Tara MacDougall, President and CEO of the Discovery Center. “This initiative allows us to welcome visitors of all ages to the Discovery Center free of charge, offering them the chance to engage in special programming and events that celebrate the rich cultural diversity of Rutherford County.” 

The Nissan Foundation awarded a total of $1.2 million in grants to 44 nonprofit organizations for its 2024 grant cycle that was announced this year. The nonprofit recipients are in Atlanta, Central Mississippi, Dallas/Ft. Worth, Middle Tennessee, New York City/New Jersey, Southeast Michigan, and Southern California–all locations where Nissan has an operational presence. 

“We’re honored to support the work of the Discovery Center,” said Chandra Vasser, President of the Nissan Foundation and Nissan’s first Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer. “The Nissan Foundation is about building community by valuing diversity, and these cultural free days from the Discovery Center bring that mission to life.”

In the 32 years since the Nissan Foundation was created, it has awarded nearly $17 million to more than 150 nonprofit organizations to support innovative programs that break down societal barriers and build inclusive communities through education and outreach. Grant recipients promote cultural diversity across a variety of arts, education, social and public programs in seven U.S. communities where Nissan operates. 

Founded in 1986, the Discovery Center is a hands-on environmental, cultural, and educational museum located in downtown Murfreesboro at 502 SE Broad Street, adjacent to the protected Murfree Spring wetlands. The museum’s Cultural Heritage Free Day Program provides free admission and special events celebrating the diverse cultures of Murfreesboro. Featuring programs like Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Arts in April, Discover India Day, and Hispanic Heritage Day, the initiative educates and connects the community.

“We are incredibly proud to offer the Cultural Heritage Free Day Program, thanks to the continued support of the Nissan Foundation,” said MacDougall. “These free days not only provide access to our museum but also foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the diverse cultures that enrich our community. We invite everyone to join us in celebrating and learning together.”

The Nissan Foundation was created in 1992 as a thoughtful response to civil unrest that occurred near Nissan North America’s then U.S. sales and marketing operations in Southern California following the Rodney King trial verdict. Nissan established a $5 million endowment to promote cultural diversity.

Nissan Foundation grants are awarded annually. Nonprofit organizations working to bring diverse cultural perspectives, experiences and voices to communities across the country may be eligible to apply for a Nissan Foundation grant. Learn more about all the 2024 Nissan Foundation grantees at www.NissanFoundation.com. For more information about the Nissan Foundation and its application process, visit the Nissan Foundation page.

MORE: Enjoy the Discovery Center seven days a week up through Labor Day. Don’t miss your chance for more time to discover, learn, and play. Whether you're exploring the interactive exhibits or engaging in their summer activities, there are endless opportunities for summer fun.

Tuesday, Aug. 26th, is your last chance this summer to enjoy the Half-Price Tuesdays. Experience Discovery Center's extended hours and half-price admission from 4 PM to 7 PM. Dive into educational fun and hands-on exhibits for just $6 per person. See you there!

Address: Discovery Center of Murfree Spring is at 502 SE Broad Street in Murfreesboro, TN (37130).