Oklahoma State Capitol Docent Program
Managed by the Oklahoma Arts Council
Ambassadors for Oklahoma
Individuals who join the Oklahoma State Capitol Docent Program effectively become ambassadors for our state, playing an essential role in providing unforgettable experiences for students and visitors from around the world. In leading guided tours through the corridors, galleries, and rotundas of the historic Capitol building, docents bring to life hundreds of works of art, provide invaluable lessons in Oklahoma history and government, and foster lifelong memories for thousands of people who visit the Capitol each year.
Who should apply?
Enthusiastic, dedicated individuals who proudly embody the spirit of Oklahoma make ideal candidates for the program. Docents should have a joy for learning, a passion for storytelling, and a love for their state. Retired individuals, those who work part time, corporate volunteers, civic leaders, art and history enthusiasts, military veterans, former public officials, educators, graduate students, and others make ideal candidates.
Apply to become an Oklahoma State Capitol Docent.
Benefits of becoming an Oklahoma State Capitol Docent
Volunteering to serve as an Oklahoma State Capitol Docent is a rewarding experience and a gratifying way to give back to the community. Benefits of becoming a docent at the Capitol include:
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Special VIP experiences
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Behind-the-scenes access to select events
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Meeting artists and seeing and learning about artworks before they are installed
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Opportunities to create meaningful, unforgettable experiences for school children
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Chances to inspire the next generation of Oklahomans
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And, more
Want to learn more? Ready to get started?
Our Curator of Education and Engagement is ready to answer your questions and provide you details about the duties of Oklahoma State Capitol Docents. For more information, contact Amanda Harmer, Curator of Education and Engagement, at (405) 521-6813 or amanda.harmer@arts.ok.gov.
Apply to become an Oklahoma State Capitol Docent.
What is required?
The program is flexible, and the Oklahoma Arts Council seeks to accommodate schedules. On average, docents volunteer approximately four hours per week. Docents lead groups of students and visitors on 45-minute tours through the Oklahoma State Capitol. Most tours take place weekdays between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. To empower docents to be successful ambassadors, the Oklahoma Arts Council provides regular training and tour scripts. Trainings ensure docents are equipped with up-to-date knowledge about touring techniques, group management, accessibility practices, and more.
Requirements include:
At least 18 years of age
Pass a background check
Attend regular trainings
Lead 45-minute tours*
Be punctual and reliable
Be comfortable speaking in public to a wide variety of audiences
Ability to communicate via email and use online scheduling applications
Represent the tour program in a nonpartisan capacity
Desired skills:
Passion for sharing about art, history, architecture, and civics with visitors of all ages
Bilingual applicants are strongly encouraged to apply
*The Oklahoma Arts Council is committed to providing an accessible experience for all, including docents. If you require an accommodation, notify our Curator of Education and Engagement.
Art, history, and government together in one place
Art, history, and government come together in a unique and dynamic way at the Oklahoma State Capitol. There is no other state capitol quite like it. The century-old building, brilliantly restored, is the epicenter for consequential decision-making impacting the everyday lives of the citizens of Oklahoma. It is also the state’s largest public art museum, home to hundreds of paintings, murals, sculptures, and cultural objects that tell the story of our state. A top tourism destination, the Oklahoma State Capitol is also an extraordinary educational venue. Docents are essential to making all of this possible.
Learn more about the Capitol Art Collection.
Learn more about the State Art Collection.
Apply to become an Oklahoma State Capitol Docent
Apply to become an Oklahoma State Capitol Docent.
For more information
Our Curator of Education and Engagement is ready to answer your questions and provide you details about the duties of Oklahoma State Capitol Docents. For more information, contact Amanda Harmer, Curator of Education and Engagement, at (405) 521-6813 or amanda.harmer@arts.ok.gov.