We are happy to spotlight Eve McClintock in this month’s Docent Highlight. Thank you, Eve, for your hard work and dedication to helping educate visitors of all ages on the collections and exhibitions at the Museum!
Tell us a little about yourself.
Although we didn’t relocate to Jacksonville until 1991, I began coming to the Cummer in the 70s, when we visited my husband’s parents at their retirement home in Ponte Vedra Beach. My mother-in-law loved the Cummer, and she and I would visit every time we came to town. There is a brick in the parking lot in her memory.
Why did you want to be a Docent, and how long have you been with the Museum?
Prior to my retirement from the business world in 2000, I became a Docent with another facility, teaching school groups about the natural world. When that program ended in 2012, I began looking for some way to continue to “give back” for all the good things in my life. Acting on a suggestion that I come to the Cummer was one of the best things I’ve ever done. I attended my first meeting in February 2013 and was immediately welcomed by the friendliest group of people I’d ever encountered!
What is your favorite part of the job?
I love interacting with the school children, many of whom are on their first visit to a museum. When a little first grade boy looks up and says to me, “This is fun – more fun that playing video games at home,” I know I’ve made a difference. I also enjoy the challenge of learning about art. I’ve always enjoyed visiting museums and have had the opportunity to visit many great ones, but learning more about art continues to be a wonderful experience.
What is your favorite thing to do when you aren’t generously donating your time to the Museum?
My family and friends are a big priority in my life. Keeping in touch with ten grandchildren keeps me busy. I am also the administrator for a family educational foundation, writing their newsletter and keeping in touch with fourteen colleges and universities.
I am in awe of the wonderful people here at the Museum – administration, staff and volunteers – who work as such a great team to make visitors enjoy the special experience that is the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens!
