National Docent Symposium Hosted at Nelson-Atkins

Kansas City, MO. Sept. 6, 2022–The 2022 National Docent Symposium will be held in Kansas City at the Intercontinental Hotel Sept. 16-19 and hosted by The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Docents and guides from the U.S. and Canada will have the opportunity to visit area attractions including the National World War I Museum and Memorial, the Kemper Museum, the Truman Library and Museum, the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures, the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, and the American Jazz Museum. The theme of this year’s conference reflects the post-pandemic desire to gather in person once again: Get Connected. Get Inspired. Get Kansas City.

“The world of art becomes a larger and more comforting place because of the passion and dedication of our talented docents,” said Julián Zugazagoitia, Menefee D. and Mary Louise Blackwell CEO & Director of the Nelson-Atkins.

The symposium, co-chaired by (pictured left to right) Denise Saper, Julie Haas, Pati Chasnoff, and Carol Cowden, is the culmination of years of diligent planning against the ever-changing backdrop of the pandemic.

“This symposium is a great opportunity for docents to share creative programs and innovative ideas for museum education.  With representation from over 100 museums and cultural institutions in North America, attendees will take advantage of learning from the best of the best,” said Cowden, who has been a docent at the Nelson-Atkins for nine years. “The docents of the Nelson-Atkins are eager to welcome colleagues from around North America as they experience the best of Kansas City culture.”

During the symposium, dinners will take place at the Nelson-Atkins, Kansas City’s historic Union Station, and the National World War I Museum and Memorial. Participants will enjoy nationally known speakers, breakout sessions on museum topics important to docents and guides, and workshops offered by local museums. Those who arrive early can take advantage of “pre-tours” to local museums and collections.

Chasnoff, a docent for more than 15 years, is passionate about lifelong learning and fascinated by the many different forms of artistic expression.

“We are very excited that the Symposium is opening after nearly seven years of planning, since we were delayed by a year due to covid,” said Chasnoff. “The support we have received is unbelievable. More than 30 community partners are joining us to welcome visitors from the U.S. and Canada. These partners represent Kansas City museums, private collectors, and civic leaders. There are not adequate words to express our gratitude and thanks.”

The symposium is an opportunity for docents to network, discover Kansas City’s vibrant arts community, and build new skills.