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Become a Docent

The next docent training class will open in 2017. Please check back in Winter 2016 for information on how to apply.

What is a docent?
A docent is a volunteer tour guide. The word dervies from the Latin word docere meaning "to teach." Docents engage visitors of all ages in interactive discussions about the visual arts.

• Appreciate art and the creative process.
• Communicate effectively with children, students, and adults in group situations.
• Exhibit strong interpersonal, organizational, and computer skills.
• Demonstrate enthusiasm, a positive attitude, good judgment, and flexibility.
• Enjoy undertaking and applying research.
• Work well independently and in teams.
• Upon completion of training, agree to three-year commitment to the program.
• Maintain a museum membership at the Cantor Arts Center.

Experience in education, art practices, or art history is not required. Bilingual applicants are encouraged to apply.

What are the training requirements?
Docents-in-training are expected to attend and fully participate in an entire nine-month training course beginning in September of the training year, meeting on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 am to 2 pm. Additional time for independent preparation, research, and projects is also required. Training includes lectures by museum educators, curators, faculty, artists, and docents. These sessions provide information on the arts and the cultural context in which they were created, the Cantor's history and collection, educational theory, and touring techniques.