The Work We Do Together: Scholars as Partners Within and Beyond the University

Andrew Klumpp, PhD, public historian and editor of "The Annals of Iowa," will present a lecture exploring how scholars can engage meaningfully with public programs beyond the university without reinforcing a binary between academic and community-based work. As the head of public programs, educational initiatives, and community outreach at the State Historical Society of Iowa, Dr. Klumpp oversees efforts that reach more than 23,000 individuals annually—from preschoolers to lifelong learners—through museum tours, teacher trainings, and community festivals.

This lecture will be especially valuable to students in the arts and humanities who are considering careers in alternative academic paths, nonprofit organizations, museums, or community development. Attendees will gain insight into building community-centered partnerships with arts and humanities organizations across Iowa and the Midwest, and learn strategies for bridging institutional and public spheres in inclusive, collaborative ways.