education
docent program
Being an ISAC docent is fundamentally about three things: learning, sharing, and community. It is personally enriching, and great fun, to learn along with an amazing community of docents who are all passionate about sharing their knowledge.
About Us
Established in 1966, ISAC’s docent program is one of the longest running programs of its kind in Chicago. Docents are the public face of the Institute and play a vital role in our mission to promote interest in and understanding of the ancient cultures of West Asia and North Africa, and their connections to the modern world. From architects and piano tuners, to surgeons and rear admirals, our docents come from all walks of life and are a distinguished, select, and trained group of individuals who bring the museum to life by leading informative and engaging tours to visitors of all ages. Becoming a docent is a great way to not only engage deeply with the work of ISAC, but also to make new friends!
benefits
There are many benefits to joining our docent program. In addition to the Member benefits, you will:
- Join a cohort of like-minded peers with mentorship from experienced docents.
- Become part of a close-knit community.
- Have access to free life-long learning opportunities from world-class scholars.
- Have access to a comprehensive specialized docent library.
- Have access to heavily discounted Continuing Education classes.
- Receive The Volunteer Voice email newsletter.
How to Apply
Apply NowA passion for engaging with the public and a love of learning is a must. You don’t need to have background knowledge in our subject areas as full training will be given, but we do request that you have an inquiring mind, positive attitude and adhere to ISAC’s policies, procedures and guest-service standards. We use Volgistics, an online volunteer software, for you to sign up to available docent openings so the ability to access emails and the internet is essential.
application process
- Submit an online application form.
- Shortlisted applicants will be invited to attend an interview.
- Successful candidates will complete a UChicago background check.
- Trainee docents must:
- Sign up to the Canvas site where all training and support materials are located.
- Attend in-person and online intensive training programs. In-person training takes place twice a year usually over four or five days in a two-week period.
- Complete required reading, video assignments, quizzes, and oral presentations.
- Complete a certification tour.
- Certified docents must:
- Become a member of the Institute.
- Devote 5 hours a month.
- Commit to continuing education by attending docent training days during the academic year (Mondays), taking ISAC Adult Education Courses, and/or attending ISAC lectures and gallery talks.