What does it mean to be human?

This question is at the heart of a traveling exhibition that will be on public display in Olson Campus Center at Luther Seminary this fall. “Exploring Human Origins” is a collaboration between the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History and the American Library Association. The exhibit will make 12 stops nationwide at various public libraries and seminaries through July 2026. Selected through a competitive process, Luther is one of six seminaries that will host the exhibit.

Through panels, interactive kiosks, hands-on displays, and videos, “Exploring Human Origins” invites viewers of all ages to learn about the milestones in the evolutionary journey of becoming human. The traveling exhibition encourages a public conversation that focuses on multiple perspectives of what it means to be human—one that embraces the ideas and beliefs of non-scientists and
fosters greater appreciation of the complexity of the science of human evolution. In addition to the exhibit, scientists and other experts from the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History’s Human Origins Program will visit Luther Seminary to host events for the community, including a science program, clergy tour, community conversations, and more.

Luther Seminary will host “Exploring Human Origins” between August 15 and November 16, 2025. Visit luthersem.edu/origins for more information about visiting the exhibition and related events.