All segments of the museum use volunteers and giving your time is a wonderful way to learn about an area that interests you while helping out the museum. Some volunteer activities can be done from home, including updating databases, editing, and preparing materials and mailings. In the summer, volunteers tend to the grounds and gardens while learning from horticulturists and ethnobotanists about the plants and their uses. Specially trained volunteers help in collections to handcraft cradles to safely store delicate objects. MNA researchers also oversee several Citizen Science projects.
Whatever your interest, skill set, and availability, there’s probably a place for you at the museum. To become involved, email volunteer coordinator Mari Soliday at msoliday@musnaz.org or call her at 928-774-5213 ext 275
Volunteer hours are tracked and often help MNA receive grants. Volunteers are responsible for logging their hours on the Volgistics website (Access for existing volunteers only)
Docents
Are you passionate about sharing stories and connecting with people? Consider becoming a docent at the Museum of Northern Arizona! Our docents are enthusiastic volunteer educators who lead tours, engage visitors with hands-on activities, and guide them through our galleries and grounds. You’ll help bring the natural and cultural history of the Colorado Plateau to life, sparking curiosity and wonder as visitors explore the museum’s exhibits and legacy.
After a friendly interview and selection process, you’ll take part in a fascinating docent training program covering topics like archaeology, ethnology, geology, paleontology, ecology, fine arts, and more.
As a docent, you’ll need to maintain your museum membership and volunteer for at least 60 hours over two years—but many docents stay much longer, enjoying continued learning through monthly Peer-to-Peer sessions and special curator-led tours of new exhibits. Plus, logging your hours is easy through our web-based volunteer management platform.
Email your interest in becoming a docent to our volunteer coordinator Mari Soliday.
Docent resource page (Access for existing docents)
SMART Cart Cadets
For high school and college students, the new Science Meets Art Carts program offers a chance to learn about science, art, and working with the public. It’s also an opportunity to build your experience, skills, and resume. SMART Cart cadets are trained to do short demonstrations and hands-on activities for museum visitors. To qualify, you must have reliable transportation and be available some weekends and Thursday evenings in the summer. If you or someone you know would like to become a SMART Cart cadet, email msoliday@musnaz.org.