Meet a Member: Laura and Ryan Lange

Laura and Ryan Lange, Witte Museum Members

Laura Lange has been visiting the Witte with her now 30-year-old son Ryan since he was five years old. They even continued to come back and visit while stationed away with the military. In 2010, they became Witte members.

What’s your favorite thing about being a Witte Museum member?

When we moved back, the Witte became a refuge for both of us. We became members because Ryan always loved this place. Boundaries are important with kids like Ryan, who has  Autism, and visiting the Witte is great practice. Visits to the museum turned into a learning adventure where daily life skills were included. Also, momma gets to talk to other adults, meet new people and learn new things as well. After so many years, the people here have become like family to us. We love them all and everyone knows Ryan. We don’t always fit in at places, so it’s comforting to me that when we come to the Witte, we feel completely at home.

Q&A

Tell us one of your favorite Witte memories.

We have so many beautiful memories, I could go on and on. We make every new exhibition special and play dress up for our Witte openings (and Christmas as well). No doubt we love our Witte Museum and the people who make it wonderful!

For example, Al—the man who was here from the beginning always went out of his way to make Ryan feel special. His kindness and thoughtfulness always touched my heart. For us, Al was the heart of the Witte and we miss him dearly.

Also, Ryan has been studying prehistoric things since he was 4. We met Dino George about 11 years ago, and we saw him so often we considered him our friend. One day he reached into his pocket and handed Ryan a fossil tooth. He treasures it like its gold to this day!

Do you have any favorite exhibitions from the past?

The Darwin exhibition was the best in my book. It was a fascinating exhibit, and Ryan couldn’t get enough! We always paid extra to see the special exhibits. We upgraded to the Family Plus membership level, so it’s nice to just get tickets straight away. As often as we come it’s reasonable—even cheaper if we added it up. It’s actually a great deal.

How has being a member inspired you to help “shape the future of Texas”?

Bringing someone with Autism to the. Witte doesn’t just teach him, it also teaches those around him. Through awareness comes understanding and even compassion. A lady told me that by hearing Ryan’s stories of adversity, she has had more understanding when she deals with families and small children. One big kid does that, and I’m proud of him for it!

What tips do you have for new members to make the most of their Witte Museum membership?

Bring a picnic, sit out back, feed the ducks and climb that treehouse!