Meet the Extraordinary Women™ Helping to Build Discovery PLAYce.
Michelle Weirich is Extraordinary.
Why did you choose to support Discovery PLAYce by making a pledge to 100 Extraordinary Women™?
“Discovery PLAYce is a meaningful investment in children, families, and the future of our community. It will provide young children with a safe, engaging environment where meaningful, hands-on play drives their growth and development. It is a place where curiosity is nurtured, imagination is celebrated, and every child—regardless of background—has the opportunity to explore, discover, and thrive.”
What are you most excited about for Discovery PLAYce?
“As an early childhood educator, I understand that children learn best when they are actively engaged, curious, and free to explore their interests. Discovery PLAYce embodies this philosophy by providing a dynamic environment where play drives meaningful learning. It will ignite children’s curiosities, build future confidence, and nurture the joyful, self-motivated learning every child deserves. Through hands-on exploration, Discovery PLAYce will give children the space to be curious, investigate how things work, and learn through trial and error. In doing so, it naturally promotes the scientific method—encouraging young learners to ask questions, make predictions, test ideas, and observe outcomes. Whether they are experimenting with water flow, building structures, exploring movement, or problem-solving within pretend community roles, children will continually form hypotheses and refine their thinking based on what they discover. In this rich environment, play becomes a powerful tool for growth. Children are not just having fun—they are developing imaginative skills that foster innovation, resilience, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning. Discovery PLAYce supports the development of inquisitive, capable young scientists who are eager to explore the world around them.”
What would you tell someone who’s thinking about donating?
“A donation to Discovery PLAYce helps create rich learning experiences that build language, problem-solving skills, social development, and confidence in young children. It supports a space where children can imagine, create, and make sense of the world around them— all while having fun through meaningful, play-based exploration. For anyone who believes in nurturing the next generation and expanding high-quality early learning opportunities, Discovery PLAYce is an impactful and truly worthy initiative to support.”
Michelle Weirich | Michelle Weirich is a lifelong resident of Beloit and is the Early Childhood Education instructor at Blackhawk Technical College. Michelle serves on several early childhood initiatives in our community, including Thrive by 5 Rock County Coalition and the Beloit Literacy for Life.
Barb Milsap-Morrow is Extraordinary.
Why did you choose to support Discovery PLAYce by making a pledge to 100 Extraordinary Women™?
“I honored to be a part of this movement. As a native Beloiter, I’ve always considered the Beloit Public Library one of its greatest treasures. Even when I lived in Chicago, it was a frequent stop when I came home to visit. This sentiment was deepened when I returned and became a BPL Associate Librarian, Board of Trustees Board Member, and Foundation Board Member. I consider the Discovery PLAYce a further extension of the visionary impact the library has had on Beloit. I’m especially excited about the focus on the younger generation and future leaders of this community. The additional space for creative and interactive learning, cultural sensitivity, and opportunities for individual growth will enhance our district school system. It’s also another source of pride for our commitment to excellence.”
Barb Milsap-Morrow | Barb is a retired businesswoman who also spent time as a Beloit Public Library Associate Librarian, Board of Trustees Board Member, and Foundation Board Member.
Regina and Michelle are Extraordinary.
Why did you choose to support Discovery PLAYce by making a pledge to 100 Extraordinary Women™?
“As educators, mentors, mothers, and proud Beloit natives, we chose to support Discovery PLAYce because it encourages active Engagement in learning and literacy. In Wisconsin, only about 7% of African American fourth-graders read proficiently, a gap that demands action. We believe Discovery PLAYce will help bridge that gap by creating meaningful opportunities for children to connect, learn, and grow right here in our community.”
What are you most excited about for Discovery PLAYce?
“We’re most excited about the Exploration that Discovery PLAYce will inspire. Michelle’s first job was at the Beloit Public Library in the children’s department. This project would be next level for Beloit. It’s a space where children can discover through play, curiosity, and creativity, connecting literacy to real-life learning. This project shows that every child who learns can be joyful, empowering, and full of possibility.”
What would you tell someone who’s thinking about donating?
“Your donation will fuel Enthusiasm for learning and help create life-changing Experiences for Beloit’s children. By supporting Discovery PLAYce, you’re giving young minds Exposure to opportunities that nurture literacy and imagination. As Mary McLeod Bethune said, “Invest in the human soul. Who knows, it might be a diamond in the rough.” Your gift is an investment, one that helps uncover brilliance, break barriers, and build a brighter, more equitable future for every child in our Beloit community.”
Regina Hendrix & Michelle Hendrix-Nora | Regina is the Director of Help Yourself Programs at Beloit College and Michelle is an Innovator at Virtuoso Mind. Together, they founded Virtuoso’s Mind, Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to harmonizing minds and communities through the power of music, art, and education.
Avery Mitchell is Extraordinary.
Why did you choose to support Discovery PLAYce by making a pledge to 100 Extraordinary Women™?
“I chose to support Discovery PLAYce because I believe that all children in Beloit should have a safe, interactive environment they can enjoy. Having this free learning space in our community will provide access for everyone, no matter what they have access to at home. Growing up in Beloit and living here my whole life motivated me to support efforts that are important to the community.”
What are you most excited about for Discovery PLAYce?
“I am most excited to see how this educational space brings together the community and brightens the futures of the children who live here. I hope Discovery PLAYce will inspire parent-child bonds, encourage learning, and teach children to support each other from a young age.”
What would you tell someone who’s thinking about donating?
“I think this is a great opportunity to give back to our city that we call home. Beloit is such a devoted community, and Beloit Public Library is a special place that we all should be proud of. I think that it is important to support the positive things around us. If we have nothing left at least we have our community to support one another.”
Avery Mitchell | Beloit Native, 2022 Graduate of Beloit Memorial High School, Restaurant Manager.
Geri Heim is Extraordinary.
Why did you choose to support Discovery PLAYce by making a pledge to 100 Extraordinary Women™?
“I am thrilled to support Discovery PLAYce, designed to build early literacy, school readiness, AND caregiver confidence. What a wonderful opportunity for families to come together for learning and socialization at BPL. This is a great investment in the future of Beloit.”
Geri Heim | Retired Child Protective Services Supervisor at Rock County Human Services and current Beloit Public Library Board of Trustees President.
The Elite Ladies of Beloit are Extraordinary.
Why did you choose to support Discovery PLAYce by making a pledge to 100 Extraordinary Women™?
“We feel that the children of Beloit will have an opportunity to excel greatly at the Discovery PLAYce which is why we have chosen to support it.”
What are you most excited about for Discovery PLAYce?
“We are excited that it will be centrally located and being at the Beloit Public Library it will give all children access to a safe environment to learn and grow.”
What would you tell someone who’s thinking about donating?
“We would tell them your donation will be greatly appreciated! The children are our future and they deserve all support that will provide opportunities to empower them and positively impact their lives.”
The Elite Ladies of Beloit | Pictured, left to right: Vernetta Farr, Lynda Mason, Kristi Martin-Payton, Vicki Ivy, Brenda Jones-Harper, Betty Hendrix, Leslie Bridges, Marilyn McKinley, and Gayle Listenbee.
Maria Elena White is Extraordinary.
Why did you choose to support Discovery PLAYce by making a pledge to 100 Extraordinary Women™?
“I’m thrilled to support the creation of a space where children from 0 to 6 years old can explore, learn, and develop holistically at the Discovery PLAYce in Beloit Public Library. Such a space not only benefits children but also provides parents with a place to connect and support each other. By supporting Discovery PLAYce, I’m contributing to building a stronger and more connected community.”
What are you most excited about for Discovery PLAYce?
“I’m excited to see children enjoy a safe and stimulating environment where they can develop their cognitive and physical skills through play. I’m also looking forward to parents being able to participate in their children’s learning process and connect with other parents who face similar challenges. A space like this can have a lasting impact on children’s development and the community as a whole.”
What would you tell someone who’s thinking about donating?
“If you’re considering donating to Discovery PLAYce, I encourage you to do so. Your support can make a significant difference in the lives of children and families in Beloit. By investing in this project, you’re investing in the future of our community. A play and learning space like Discovery PLAYce can have a profoundly positive impact on children’s development and the quality of life for their families. Thank you for considering a donation to support this important cause!”
Maria Elena White is a Spanish and Communications Lecturer at University of Wisconsin-Whitewater and editor of La Voz de Beloit.
Regina Dunkin is Extraordinary.
Why did you choose to support Discovery PLAYce by making a pledge to 100 Extraordinary Women™?
“Discovery PLAYce in Beloit Public Library is a nurturing space where children can feel free to explore, imagine, and discover the joy of learning and reading. By supporting this project, we can help ensure every child in our community has the chance to reach their full potential and gain knowledge that last a lifetime!”
What would you tell someone who’s thinking about donating?
“I truly hope every person in our community will feel inspired to join our efforts and give a monetary gift–because our children and families deserve the opportunity to learn, read, dream, and succeed! They are worth the investment of our time, our hearts, and our hope for a brighter future.”
Regina Dunkin is a community civic leader who continues to empower children and families in Beloit and throughout Wisconsin to thrive. Regina has served on numerous boards and is the former President of the Beloit City Council.
Robinson Retired Teachers are Extraordinary.
Why did you choose to support Discovery PLAYce by making a pledge to 100 Extraordinary Women™?
“We are eleven retired schoolteachers from Robinson Elementary School in Beloit who came together, donating $100 each, to support this extraordinary idea for the children of Beloit. While we may not each be able to donate $1,000, we believe that as a team of caring teachers we can work together for good. We love Beloit and its children and are delighted to help in this way. We encourage others to team up and pitch in!”
Robinson Elementary Retired Teachers | Kathy Bender, Jeanne Chernik-Krueger, Nancy Furman, Monica Grismer, Sheryl Horvath, Bonnie Kretsos, Debbie McCann, Kathy McNamee, Mary Porter, Leslie Rennie, Le Tran (some pictured)
Mary Kaminski is Extraordinary.
Why did you choose to support Discovery PLAYce by making a pledge to 100 Extraordinary Women™?
“American author Garrison Keillor once said, ‘Nothing you do for children is ever wasted.’ Supporting Discovery PLAYce is a win-win for our children, our community. and anyone who contributes to the project.”
What are you most excited about for Discovery PLAYce?
“What excites me most about Discovery PLAYce is that it is a space that will capture the awe and wonder of the young learner. And, will be the ‘red carpet’ hallmark in the Beloit community.”
What would you tell someone who’s thinking about donating?
“Discovery PLAYce is an essential building block for the growth and development of children. It’s engaging, innovative, and creates synergy with parents and their children.”
Mary Kaminski is an Adjunct Instructor at Blackhawk Technical College, Community Volunteer, and Community Advocate. She also is full-time caregiver for her mother.
Florence Haley is Extraordinary.
Why did you choose to support Discovery PLAYce by making a pledge to 100 Extraordinary Women™?
“As a child, the library was my favorite place to escape. It was magical — a peaceful world where my imagination could come alive. I would sit in a corner, read, and dream about endless possibilities. Those moments sparked my lifelong love of learning. Supporting Discovery PLAYce is my way of helping the next generation experience that same spark — giving young minds a place to grow, explore, and discover the joy of learning.”
What are you most excited about for Discovery PLAYce?
“Knowing that I can play a small part in preserving something that will last — not just for my own family, but for my entire community. Yes, it’s meaningful to know that my name will be etched on a brick for my future generations to see, but even more important is the vision behind it: a legacy of giving, learning, and hope. I’m excited that Discovery PLAYce will inspire children and caregivers alike — helping them build school readiness, confidence, and a lifelong love for learning. It’s about planting seeds today that will bloom for generations to come.”
What would you tell someone who’s thinking about donating?
“Discovery PLAYce is more than a project, it’s a promise to Beloit’s future. The Discovery PLAYce gives every child, current and future generations, in Beloit the chance to start strong and dream big. Far too many of our children are starting school already behind – 88% of Beloit students are reading below grade level by grade 3. When you give to Discovery PLAYce, you’re investing in generational change. This initiative will only happen through community support — neighbors, families, and local leaders who believe in the power of education to transform lives and open the doors of opportunity for generations to come.”
Florence Haley is a retired Human Resources Management Professional who also served as the Program Director for Rock County Jumpstart. She has served on the Family Promise of Greater Beloit Board, Beloit Public Library Board, Rock County Christian School Board, Blackhawk Technical College Advisory Councils, Stateline United Way Board, and Greater Beloit Economic Development Committee. Post-career years, she has dedicated herself to writing and empowering families.
Rachelle Elliott is Extraordinary.
Why did you choose to support Discovery PLAYce by making a pledge to 100 Extraordinary Women™?
“I am supporting Discovery PLAYce because it will provides young children with a free, engaging space to learn through play. Its early childhood educational centers will promote language development and expand vocabulary through hands-on, interactive experiences.”
What are you most excited about for Discovery PLAYce?
“I am excited to support Discovery PLAYce because it gives children the chance to explore and learn about the world around them through imaginative, hands-on play. From scooping custard at a restaurant to taking x-rays at the clinic to putting on turnout gear at the fire station, or picking vegetables at the farmers market, kids will discover community roles in fun, meaningful ways.”
What would you tell someone who’s thinking about donating?
“Others should consider donating to Discovery PLAYce because their support will help create a free, enriching space where all children can learn through imaginative play. Every contribution helps build interactive exhibits that inspire curiosity, creativity, and a love of learning—encouraging families to check out books and other library services while strengthening our community for years to come.”
Rachelle Elliott is the Director of Early Literacy and Professional Learning & Development at the School District of Beloit, as well as a member of Beloit Public Library Board of Directors.
Be extraordinary. Donate today.
Together, we can change the story for Beloit’s children—one playful moment at a time. Give in your own name or to honor or remember a special woman. Visit 100extraordinarywomen.com today to make your donation.