- Sections :
- More
The Hansen Museum held its annual meeting on Sunday, welcoming folks for a meaningful afternoon highlighted by reflection, recognition, and inspiration. Museum Director Shari Buss opened the meeting with a brief review of the Museum’s successful 2025 year, noting continued growth in programming and community engagement, especially area schools. Following the review, two long-serving Hansen Museum Board members were honored for their dedication and commitment. Marianna Kemper was recognized for 15 years of service, and Linda Toll for an impressive 25 and a half years. Buss, along with the entire Museum Board, expressed sincere gratitude for their many years of selfless service to the organization.
Attendees were then privileged to hear a warm and inspiring message from guest speaker Trooper Ben Gardner, a retired Kansas Highway Patrolman. To complement his message, the Museum distributed five-dollar bills to the first 50 guests through the doors. Each bill included a note encouraging recipients to “pay it forward,” serving as a tangible reminder of Gardner’s call to action.
During his presentation, Trooper Gardner shared powerful snippets from his life, including experiences of poverty and severe bullying during his childhood. Despite these hardships, he spoke of the teachers, neighbors, and community members who intentionally reached out to support him during his formative years. Their compassion and presence, he explained, brought light into difficult circumstances and gave him the hope to pursue a better future.
Without initially sharing his plans with family or friends, Gardner joined the U.S. Army, a decision that brought him to Kansas as he was stationed at Fort Riley. While serving there, he met his wife which ultimately led to his decision to make Kansas his home. After his military service, he went on to serve as a Kansas Highway Patrolman.
Gardner also reflected on the irony of his journey, sharing that as a student he was placed on an Individualized Education Plan (IEP), where struggles with communication were well documented. Today, he travels across Kansas and beyond, effectively communicating a powerful message centered on helping others.
His message to the audience was simple yet impactful: don’t write anyone off. Be aware of those around you, and when you see someone in need, step in and help. Be intentional—because it truly makes a difference.
Kansas is stronger for having Trooper Ben Gardner as a citizen, and those who have not yet heard his message are encouraged to take the opportunity when it arises—you will be better for it.
The Hansen Museum invites you to visit our current exhibition, SPECTACLE. This exciting exhibit provides a unique and interesting experience for visitors of all ages. The Hansen Museum is located at 110 W. Main Street in Logan, Kansas. Hours are Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. and 1:00–4:00 p.m.; Saturday, 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. and 1:00–5:00 p.m.; and Sunday and holidays, 1:00–5:00 p.m. The Museum is handicap-accessible, and thanks to the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, admission is always free. For more information, please call 785-689-4846. We hope to see YOU at the Museum soon!
