Image courtesy KU

The University of Kansas Natural History Museum at Dyche Hall sees many field trips and family visits bringing young Kansans there to see fossils, a live bee colony, and other exhibits, while also getting their first look at KU and what it offers.

Jann and Tom Rudkin have given $1 million to help make the museum more welcoming and accessible. Their gift will fund a new accessible entrance from Jayhawk Boulevard to Dyche Hall. Any remaining funds will help restore parts of the historic Panorama exhibit, including taxidermy specimens.

The Rudkins met at KU and graduated in 1973. Tom Rudkin later helped develop the first version of PowerPoint. Jann Rudkin now serves on the KU Biodiversity Institute board. The couple was inspired by their nephew, who uses a powerchair, and by the need for better access in historic buildings. The new entrance will match Dyche Hall’s historic look, using local limestone to preserve its character.