Amy embodies what it means to be welcoming and warm, she brightens up every encounter with guests, staff and other volunteers. In the mansion she serves as a docent or host; greets guests at events; helps children with craft activities; works on many prep projects; supports education programs; and represents Cheekwood at community outreach….all with a cheerful smile. We are grateful for Amy’s contribution to our mission.
Tell us a little about yourself and your background.
I’m originally from West Tennessee. I moved to California in my 20s before finding my way back to Nashville in 2000. I’m a retired librarian and also volunteer at the Nashville public library.
What are your favorite hobbies, activities, or interests?
I enjoy meeting new people, reading, travel, music, museums, good food (occasionally even cooking something myself!).
What is your favorite garden or area at Cheekwood and why?
I love the children’s garden. I have a lot of fun memories helping out with the TOTS! program there. And I have to give a shout out to everyone who works TOTS! Prep. We always have so much fun and laugh so hard, we often forget we’re actually doing work! And when I want quiet time to myself, I love walking the sculpture garden.
Do you have a favorite artwork at Cheekwood, or, if not, a favorite exhibition that Cheekwood has hosted? Is there a reason you like it?
I love the painting, Babette. A woman sitting in an easy chair with a stack of books, staring into the distance thinking about what she’s just read? That’s me on any Sunday afternoon!
Why did you decide to become a volunteer at Cheekwood?
I’ve always loved museums, but I never took a docent tour until about 15 years ago. The docent was so engaging and the tour was so informative, it really transformed my museum experience. I love Cheekwood’s story and its part in Nashville’s history and I try to bring a bit of that enjoyment to others through my work here at Cheekwood. It’s also a place I bring out-of-town visitors and they’re always impressed, so it’s fun to show off Cheekwood to Nashville’s visitors and residents.
What have you enjoyed the most about your volunteer experience?
The terrific exhibits and shows you get to experience with a sort of behind-the-scenes viewpoint. People are the most important thing to me. Not only are the visitors you meet interesting and interested, but the people here at Cheekwood - the entire staff and the other volunteers and docents - are the best. Everyone pitches in and helps!
Is there a funny or inspirational story you can briefly tell about your volunteer experience?
I really enjoy the challenge of making the Cheekwood experience interesting to kids. They love the trains and all of our seasonal special events and exhibitions. In the mansion, they think the “secret” staircase in the octagonal hall and the dumb waiter are very cool! And I always tell them to count all of the water structures that they see on the grounds. Kids always have a funny and unique vision and opinion of what they see.
Do you have any advice for individuals considering volunteering with Cheekwood?
From a practical point of view, Cheekwood is a great place to volunteer because of the flexibility it offers. I’d also tell anyone considering volunteering that Cheekwood offers a variety of opportunities for volunteers. No matter what your talents and interests may be, Cheekwood offers something that you’ll find rewarding and fun.
For more information about volunteering visit our volunteer web page: www.cheekwood.org/support/volunteer