Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota receives record $4M gift to fund major expansion

MANKATO, Minn. (KEYC) - The Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota has received the largest donation in its history — a $4 million commitment that will help fund a major expansion of the beloved community institution.

The gift was made by Mankato-area donor Heidi Boyum through a donor-advised fund at the Mankato Area Foundation. Museum officials say the contribution marks a transformational milestone in the organization’s mission to ignite the natural curiosity of every child through the power of play.

A Gift Rooted in Community

Boyum, who has witnessed firsthand the impact the museum has on children and families across Southern Minnesota, said the experience of seeing kids light up at the museum inspired her generosity.

“You know you have a great place to be when children can’t wait to go back,” said Boyum.

Museum CEO Kim Kleven said the donation provides powerful momentum for the organization’s long-term vision.

“This is an incredibly exciting time for the Museum,” said Kleven. “Over the past five years, we’ve engaged in thoughtful strategic work to shape a clear vision for the future of the Museum — one where children in our region have safe, engaging spaces to explore, imagine, and grow. Heidi’s generous support provides further momentum for our strategic vision and our commitment to children. Together, we are creating indoor and outdoor environments where every child can build confidence, spark curiosity, and feel a true sense of belonging.”

Expansion Plans on the Horizon

While full details of the expansion have not yet been released, leaders say the gift is a launching point for what comes next — broadening how the museum connects children and caregivers to learning through play.

Sarah Richards, Capital Campaign Chair, said the gift represents more than a financial milestone.

“With this gift, we have an opportunity to create the kind of safe, unstructured play experiences we remember from our own childhoods,” said Richards. “More than anything, it serves as a launching point for what comes next, expanding how the Museum connects children and caregivers to learning through play.”

Nancy Zallek, President and CEO of the Mankato Area Foundation, praised Boyum’s thoughtful approach to giving.

“What stands out most about Heidi is not just her generosity, but her thoughtfulness. She has a unique ability to recognize where she can make a difference and act in ways that truly benefit the community,” said Zallek. “This gift to the Children’s Museum reflects her deep commitment to our young people and to creating opportunities for meaningful play — nurturing curiosity and lifelong learning across our community.”

A Community Cornerstone

Since opening its doors in 2015, the Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota has welcomed nearly one million visitors. The museum offers interactive exhibits, STEAM programming, theater and cultural experiences, and agricultural education — all centered on hands-on play for children and families.

Full details on the expansion are expected to be shared in the coming months.

The Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota is located at 224 Lamm Street in Mankato. For more information, visit cmsouthernmn.org.

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