22 New Graduates Bolster the Burchfield Penney Docent Corp

After 12 weekly preparatory classes at the Center, 22 new docents joined the ranks of our dedicated volunteer teaching guides. The group contributes a wealth of diverse professional experiences and enhances our tour offerings by bringing additional languages to the team (Spanish, Korean, and Chinese).

“The Burchfield Penney Art Center can do what we do and be who we are because of our docents,” shares director Scott Propeack. “They are our colleagues and friends representing us to more than 15,000 people annually. They provide insight and generosity of time and spirit, enriching our community and influencing our choices. Celebrating the graduation of a new group of leaders is exciting because it will expand how we think and act. They lead tours, and they lead us in how we think about our role as Buffalonians.”

The extensive training, developed by education program manager Mary Kozub, focuses on an inquiry-based teaching method aimed at empowering visitors in their own art-interpretation skills.  New docent Ke Shi elaborates, “I saw my capability of being a docent through this training, just as audiences will realize their aptitude for appreciating art in the tours.”

"It was so nice to learn in such a positive and nurturing environment, adds fellow docent Mary DeVeny. “I felt honored to be with such a lovely group of docents-in-training. We were all encouraged to share our thoughts and ideas. I learned so much not only from Mary Kozub and the staff but also from my fellow students. I am so proud to be part of this wonderful organization.”

The training culminated in each of the docents leading their own graduation tour, which Mary Kozub described astounding. She concludes, “We look forward to providing an extraordinary experience for our guests.”  

Join our public docent-led tours from 2-3 pm on Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, or book a group tour on our website here.