Our History

In 1993 Wings Trust, (a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization), was founded by Leila Hadley Luce and Milbry Polk to preserve the oral histories, discoveries, and accomplishments of women explorers. Nearly ten years later, in 2001, Milbry Polk and Mary Tiegreen published, "Women of Discovery: A Celebration of Intrepid Women Who Explored the World," to introduce the public to the incredible stories and adventures of past and present women explorers.  Then, in 2003, WINGS WorldQuest was created to expand the mission of Wings Trust, leading to the founding of the WINGS Women of Discovery Awards program, which celebrates and supports the ground-breaking work of current women explorers and scientists.

WINGS WorldQuest is dedicated to promoting the contributions of women explorers, in all fields of study around the world, and to advancing scientific exploration and education. Our work unites elements of empowering women, scientific curiosity, environmental activism, conservation, humanities, exploration, mentoring and education.

Since its inception, WINGS WorldQuest has recognized and brought to light the accomplishments of amazing women. Through their vision and work, these diverse women have uncovered incredible knowledge in the social and physical sciences, while setting inspiring examples for men, children and women alike.

What we value...

• The contributions of women pioneers and visionaries who preceded us
• Curiosity, inquiry, risk-taking and the pursuit of knowledge
• The strength of women explorers’ spirit and work
• Explorers of every age, color, national origin, physical ability, race, religion and sexual orientation
• Strategic alliances with other educational and scientific organizations and institutions

Our Vision... a society in which...

• Women’s accomplishments in scientific and artistic exploration are recognized and respected
• Women doing exploration have access to organizational support and networking
• The history of women explorers is documented and accessible
• The public will be inspired by and informed about women explorers
• There are no barriers to women becoming explorers
• Every person understands that we all are explorers
• All girls and women know that they can be explorers in some field