Docents: Champions of Plant Science
The Danforth Center's docent program is integral to sharing its mission to improve the human condition through plant science. This dedicated group of volunteer educators, often retired scientists, academics, or entrepreneurs, leads engaging tours for community groups, professionals, and potential donors. Docents play a pivotal role in promoting the Center's work, its global impact, and its contributions to St. Louis as a hub for plant science innovation.
During a recent lunch and learn, docents, including retired IT director Robbye Frank seen here, learned the basics of plant transformation from Danforth Center Principal Investigator Dr. Veena Veena (left). Frank enjoys “helping the Danforth Center become more appreciated within the St. Louis region and beyond.”
"Docents bring tremendous value to the Danforth Center. We are so grateful for their generous gifts of time and talent, which are inspiring for visitors and scientists alike."
Veena Veena, PhD, Danforth Center Principal Investigator; Director, Plant Transformation Facility
Docents are extensively trained, combining their passion for education with deep knowledge of the Center's cutting-edge research. They guide visitors through key areas, such as the Advanced Bioimaging Laboratory, the Bellwether Phenotyping Facility, and the state-of-the-art greenhouses and growth chambers in the Plant Growth Facility, making complex scientific concepts accessible and inspiring curiosity about plant science.
Professor of entrepreneurship Steve Epner leading a tour. Docents lead tours of the Danforth Center to help increase public awareness. Epner’s motivation: “the impact the Center is having on the world.”
Beyond their technical expertise, docents excel in communication and tailoring their presentations to diverse audiences. Through ongoing training and collaboration with the Center’s scientists, they ensure each tour highlights the Center’s transformative research addressing global challenges like food security and climate change.
Retired plant scientist Dr. Molly Cline presenting at a Danforth Center event. Cline worked for 35 plus years in commercial agriculture. She believes deeply in the “vision created by Dr. Bill Danforth” and enjoys staying up to date on plant science as a docent.
As one docent shares, "It's rewarding to see visitors leave with a deeper understanding of the Center’s work and the impact plant science can have on our world." Through their volunteer efforts, Danforth Center docents are more than guides—they are ambassadors of science, fostering connections that inspire support for the Center’s mission.
Industrial engineer Azmy Azmy started his career with Ralston Purina and has now “come full circle” by volunteering with the Danforth Center. His motivation: “I am fascinated by plant science research.”
You Can Help
Some docents are inspired by the Danforth Center’s work to breed climate-resilient crops. Others are motivated by STEM education and outreach. While still others volunteer to "keep the memory alive" of Founding Chair Dr. Bill Danforth. At the Danforth Center, we believe that plant science can feed the world and sustain the planet. If you agree, please consider a gift of support.
About
A version of this story originally appeared in the Leaflet, the free newsletter of the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center. Sign up to receive more stories like this straight to your inbox.