Washington, D.C. —Freedom’s Frontier National Heritage Area (FFNHA) leadership met today with Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-02) in his Capitol Hill office to discuss the heritage area’s mission, current initiatives, and opportunities for future collaboration.

Lucinda Adams, Executive Director of Freedom’s Frontier; Johnny Szlauderbach, Director of Communications and Projects; Clay Bauske, Vice Chair of FFNHA’s Board of Trustees; and Katy Owens, FFNHA Trustee, met with Congressman Schmidt and his staff to provide an overview of the organization’s effort to strengthen smalltown economies by preserving and promoting the region’s nationally significant history and culture.

During the meeting, Ms. Adams and Mr. Szlauderbach highlighted FFNHA’s ongoing efforts to support rural communities through heritage tourism, educational programming, and partnership development. They also reviewed upcoming projects and examined potential avenues for collaboration with the Congressman’s office to strengthen these initiatives and further FFNHA’s core mission.

“We appreciate Congressman Schmidt taking the time to meet with us and learn more about the important work happening across Freedom’s Frontier,” said Ms. Adams. “These conversations are essential to maintaining public-private partnerships that benefit communities, educators, and visitors alike.”

Mr. Szlauderbach emphasized the value of building strong relationships in Washington. “Meeting with Congressman Schmidt allows us to share our vision and identify opportunities to work together on projects that celebrate our shared history while growing local economies.”

Congressman Schmidt expressed his deep-rooted interest in Kansas history and was enthusiastic about FFNHA’s impact in his district and beyond. The Congressman welcomed continued communication and collaboration.

Freedom’s Frontier National Heritage Area works in partnership with communities, organizations, and public agencies to preserve, interpret, and promote the history of westward expansion, the Kansas-Missouri Border War, and regional stories that shaped the country.

For more information about Freedom’s Frontier National Heritage Area, visit freedomsfrontier.org.