Krannert Art Museum (KAM) volunteer docents lead tours of the museum’s permanent collection and special exhibitions to pre K–12 student and adult groups. They receive monthly training in art history and museum teaching techniques.
Qualifications
Candidates must have a strong interest in learning about art and enjoy interacting with groups of all ages. Knowledge of art and teaching experience is helpful, but not required. Fluency in Spanish is a plus. Must have time available during weekdays to give tours.
Training and Time Commitment
Training will begin in Fall 2015. Docents will attend eight training sessions each semester, which are scheduled on Mondays from 9:30–11:00 am. Sessions cover the museum’s collections, art history, and teaching techniques to engage audiences of all ages. Docents will begin leading tours in January 2016.
Docents are expected to make a two-year commitment, give a minimum of five tours per year, and attend all training sessions (make-ups are offered for missed sessions).
Admission to the Program
To apply to the Docent Program, please send a one-page letter of interest to the Director of Education, Anne Sautman: asautman(at)illinois.edu. You may also mail your letter of interest to her attention at Krannert Art Museum, 500 East Peabody Drive, MC-592, Champaign, IL 61820.
The letter should explain why you would like to be a KAM docent as well as your interest in art, experience teaching and public speaking, and other related skills or experience.
Application deadline is June 15, 2015; once letters of interest are reviewed, applicants will be contacted for interviews.
Please note: This position is security sensitive. Eligibility is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. The University ensures that all background checks are held in compliance with all federal and state statutes, and campus policy. Information attained from background check will be kept strictly confidential. Docents will have the right to request a copy of the report the University receives.