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Midwestern University made a memorable debut at the Arizona Museum of Natural History’s annual I Love Science Day in March, captivating visitors of all ages with hands-on learning.

The day celebrates science through interactive exhibits encouraging curiosity and discovery. Kevin Manfredi, Senior Research Specialist representing the College of Veterinary Medicine-Arizona at Midwestern University, taught visitors through a close-up look of mammal and reptile skulls. As part of Midwestern’s exhibit, visitors played a guessing game to match each skull to the animal it belongs to. 

“One of our showstoppers is a walrus skull with very long tusks,” said Beth Townsend, Ph.D., Professor of Anatomy, who organized the University’s participation in the event. “About half the people guess it’s a walrus, but we get some wild guesses like, “’It’s a mammoth, right?’”

The table was packed with skulls from the Arizona Research Collection for Integrative Vertebrate Education and Study (ARCIVES), a research center in the College of Graduate Studies at Midwestern University. ARCIVES regularly supports public outreach efforts, using education and engagement to bring academic research to the community. Recent appearances include events such as Phoenix Zoo’s ZooLights, with additional outreach planned at Fan Fusion in downtown Phoenix from June 5-7.

“My favorite part of teaching the visitors is how some people are curious about all the animal skulls and how others are very serious; they want to guess all of them correctly. Most people do a really good job guessing what the animals are,” Dr. Townsend said. 

For many attendees, the hands-on interaction made scientific concepts feel tangible and memorable. Dr. Townsend noted the most common takeaway was surprise, especially at just how large or small certain animals’ skulls are.

The event served as an important outreach opportunity, connecting the University directly with the community in an unexpected and engaging setting.

“Outreach events like this give people an anchor to remember Midwestern University,” Dr. Townsend explained. “We’re known for our excellent educational experience and for graduating exceptional healthcare professionals. Being out in the community at unexpected places like the natural history museum is a great way for people to engage with us and see the diversity of programs we have.”

For more information about the ARCIVES research center at Midwestern University, go to: /research/office-research-sponsored-programs/arcives