Celebrate America250 with a
Naturalization Ceremony and New Exhibit!
Celebrating America 250! Lunch & Learn Series

ABILENE, Kan. — The public is invited to welcome our nation's newest citizens on Constitution Day and celebrate with free museum admission to the Eisenhower Presidential Library. The Naturalization Ceremony will take place on July 1, 2026, at 11 a.m. in the Eisenhower Presidential Library building indoor courtyard with overflow seating in the Library Auditorium. The event will also be livestreamed on the IkeLibrary YouTube channel.

The proceedings will be administered by the Honorable Rachel E. Schwartz, U.S. District Court of Kansas. The ceremony will include a heartfelt rendition of the National Anthem by Kansas' emerging artist, Dallas Pryor, and remarks by President Eisenhower's granddaughter Mary Jean Eisenhower.

This ceremony also marks the grand opening of the new "Ike's Work" exhibit, which celebrates America's 250th anniversary and pays tribute to the legacy of President Dwight D. Eisenhower. Centered around Eisenhower’s own list of top administration accomplishments, this immersive exhibit showcases archival documents and letters written to the President by American citizens, illustrating Ike’s commitment to connecting with everyday Americans. The experience invites visitors to explore the profound impact of his leadership and reflect on the enduring role of citizen engagement in our democracy.

"We are honored to welcome our nation's newest citizens, and it is especially meaningful to host this ceremony as we unveil the new "Ike's Work" exhibit, which offers a fresh perspective on President Eisenhower’s enduring legacy," states Eisenhower Presidential Library Acting Director Dawn Hammatt. Each new citizen will receive a full-size American flag compliments of The Eisenhower Foundation. Special thanks to the Kansas Sons of the American Revolution, Konza Prairie Sons of the American Revolution and League of Women Voters - Salina.

"We encourage everyone to join us in celebrating this momentous occasion and to engage with the civic responsibilities that come with citizenship. Your presence will honor our new citizens and strengthen our community ties and appreciation for our democratic values."

The 2026 programming season celebrates America's 250th anniversary and examines President Eisenhower's top accomplishments in the continual pursuit of a more perfect Union. These programs are made possible courtesy of The Eisenhower Foundation.

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