Most people reading this blog likely know Dr. Larry Sernyk—an honorary sustaining member of the Science Education Foundation of Indiana and a dedicated contributor to science outreach. His involvement spans organizations such as the American Chemical Society (ACS) Indiana Section, STEM Fest, Girl Scouts, You Be the Chemist, ISEF, and Junior Achievement Job Spark—and likely many more!

In July 2023, Larry moved from Indianapolis to Red Oak II, Missouri, and though his contributions to science outreach were well known in Indiana, I had no idea just how much he had going on in Missouri—until my husband, Gary, and I visited him at the end of May.

A Man of Many Passions

Larry is now on the board of directors and serves as treasurer of the Route 66 Association of Missouri, an organization deeply connected to one of America’s most historic highways. One of the must-see stops on Route 66 is Red Oak II, where Larry lives in the White Oak Creek Civil War House. It was one of only 6 houses left standing in this area after the Civil War and was moved to Red Oak II 1992 where it was restored. But that’s just the beginning, he also owns a number of other buildings in the town, including The Dalton Gang House, a restored log cabin built in 1938 that was used as the first temporary courthouse in Jasper County in 1841, a train station, Fort Hooker, The Red Barn, and other historic properties, most of which were painstakingly moved to the Red Oak II property as well as the La Grange school which is located just South West of Red Oak II. Built in 1868, the old stone schoolhouse was restored by Larry to its original condition.

One of his newest projects is the construction of a fabulous art gallery to showcase the work of the late Lowell Davis, a visionary artist, creator of Red Oak II, and close friend of Larry’s. Larry also enjoys giving tours of Red Oak II, sharing their rich history, and inspiring visitors to explore these hidden gems. A few others own all the other historical buildings and are part of this historic community.

But his passion for education isn’t fading—he plans to host STEM activities for kids inside a large gazebo on his property at Red Oak II, continuing his lifelong mission of making science accessible and exciting for future generations. Larry says, “A lot of families visit Red Oak II throughout the year and thus it will provide a great STEM outreach opportunity which will reach a wide audience of all ages and it’s just across the road from my house.”

Gratitude for a Legacy of Service

Larry’s unwavering dedication to science education has touched countless lives, and his generosity continues to inspire us all. We are incredibly grateful to Larry and all our dedicated volunteers who have worked tirelessly to make Celebrate Science Indiana such a success each year. Their passion for outreach and commitment to scientific literacy are what make this event truly special.

Celebrating Science, Honoring Larry

With that spirit in mind, Celebrate Science Indiana is set to take place on October 11, 2025, from 9:30 AM to 5 PM at the Indiana State Fairgrounds, Exposition Hall.

Larry hopes to be able to attend this year’s Celebrate Science Indiana with his Space Weather/Aurora Science booth. If you are inspired by Larry and would like to attend, exhibit, sponsor, or volunteer, please click the respective link—we hope to see you on October 11!

Honoring excellence! Larry receives the ACE Initiative Award from the American Chemical Society, Indiana Section—presented personally during my visit.

A drone photo of Red Oak II, June 2024.