Kevin and Katie from the Nauvoo Class of 2008

Students experience the importance of community outreach at the annual Kirtland Strawberry Festival.

Students in Kirtland learn the proper care and handling of historic objects by exploring an 1880s pump organ

Students Acquire Leadership Skills at Community of Christ Historic Sites

For nearly forty years, undergraduate and graduate students from all over the United States have enhanced leadership skills and professional experience at Community of Christ historic sites.

What began as a summer internship for Graceland College theater students in the ’60s has evolved into two intensive internship and fellowship programs.

A summer in Nauvoo, Illinois, or Kirtland, Ohio, becomes a résumé-building opportunity. Within weeks, students gain public-speaking experience by addressing groups of one to 100. Interns and fellows create and carry out public programs, visitor services, and museum store management. They also learn about artifact care and handling. Former students have used their new skills as lawyers, teachers, therapists, curators, and community leaders.

Students with a special interest in the Community of Christ Leadership Program receive internship credit for their summer experience. They have a chance to become involved in congregations and reunions, lead worship services and host traveling youth groups. They also represent Community of Christ to a multitude of people curious about our denomination. Past students have said their summer experience strengthened their faith and passion for the Community of Christ mission.

Besides honing their skills, students receive six hours of university credit, $2,600–$2,925, and free furnished housing within walking distance of the site. They also may travel to surrounding sites to observe and discuss education, interpretation, and management styles.

The thirteen-week summer internship and fellowship programs in Nauvoo and Kirtland are as diverse as the students. Participants have included those with an emphasis in history, political science, elementary education, music, and information technology. Site managers and instructors especially seek a strong work ethic, multitasking skills, passion for learning, ability to thrive outside a traditional classroom, and a genuine interest in people and places.

For more information or application, contact Lachlan Mackay (440) 339-6398.

—Barbara Walden reporting