Ozarks Engaged: Citizenry and the Future of Our Communities
Join us for Missouri Humanities’ 8th annual Springfield Symposium, part of the “Missouri Voices: Civics & Citizenry” series, exploring how citizenry builds community connections locally and nationally. “Ozarks Engaged” examines civility, civic engagement, and active participation in creating an informed society.
The symposium opens with LeVar Burton discussing literacy’s role in civic engagement, setting the stage for conversations with community members and organizations who will share insights on enhancing citizenry, building civic participation, and shaping the future of the Ozarks through impactful initiatives.
Thursday, April 3
An Evening with LeVar Burton: A Keynote of Missouri Humanities’ Ozarks Engaged Symposium
Gillioz Theatre | 325 Park Central E, Springfield, MO
Doors open at 6pm, Discussion at 7pm
This evening’s event is at full capacity.
LeVar Burton, legendary actor, storyteller, and former host and executive producer of Reading Rainbow, gained global recognition for his role as Kunta Kinte in Roots and Chief Engineer Geordi La Forge in Star Trek: The Next Generation. Airing from 1983 to 2009, Reading Rainbow became one of the longest-running and most acclaimed children’s programs in television history.
Burton has received six NAACP Awards, a Grammy, 14 Emmys, and the 2024 National Humanities Medal for his lifelong dedication to championing literacy. In a moderated conversation with Greg Burris, Executive Director of the United Way of the Ozarks’ Give 5 Program, he will discuss how literacy builds community and strengthens civic engagement.
The Keynote is presented in partnership with the Springfield-Greene County Library and the Friends of the Library, with sponsorship support from Missouri State University Libraries, Drury University, and Humanities and Ethics Center, with additional support from the Gillioz Theatre and Ozarks Public Television.
Parking Information
After 5 PM, free public parking is available in two lots behind the theater on Olive Street. Guests may also park for free in the Discovery Center lot. Additional parking is available just south of the theater.
An Evening with LeVar Burton Livestream
Going Live at 7pm
LeVar Burton’s keynote will be livestreamed in partnership with Ozark Public Television. Registered attendees will receive an email with the viewing link and password two hours before the event. Please note this is a one-time livestream and will not be available for replay. The deadline to register for the Livestream is April 2 at 5pm.
The Livestream of “An Evening with LeVar Burton” is provided in partnership with Ozarks Public Television.
Be part of Ozarks Engaged! Click the registration button to sign up for sessions on April 4 and April 5. All sessions are free; attend any or all sessions as you please.
Friday, Arpil 4
The Power of Story: Literacy, Citizenry, and Community Impact Film Screening & Panel Discussion
Historic Fox Theatre | 157 Park Central Square, Springfield, MO
Reception with light refreshments from 4:30 – 5:30 pm | Screening from 5:30 – 6:45 pm
Panel Discussion from 7:00 – 8:00 pm
Can literacy break the cycle of poverty and empower communities? Join us for a free screening of SENTENCED, an immersive documentary revealing the realities of childhood illiteracy through the stories of those who have never learned to read. Executive-produced and narrated by four-time NBA champion Stephen Curry, SENTENCED offers a powerful and hopeful exploration of how literacy can unlock opportunities and break the cycle of generational poverty.
Following the screening, a panel of local literacy leaders and one of the film’s producers will discuss the links between literacy, poverty, and civic engagement, exploring challenges, solutions, and efforts to drive meaningful change.
Attendees can connect with regional organizations dedicated to closing literacy gaps and strengthening community ties, with options to get involved through volunteering, tutoring, advocacy, or supporting literacy initiatives.
This event is made possible in partnership with the History Museum on the Square, Ozarks Literacy Council, and Children’s Literacy Project, with additional support from the Humanities and Ethics Center.
Panelists:
- Amy Jardell, Executive Director, Ozarks Literacy Council
- Monica Horton, Zone 1 City Council Member, City of Springfield
- Lucy Martin, Co-producer, SENTENCED and Development Director, Children’s Literacy Project
- Dr. Shurita Thomas-Tate, Associate Professor of Speech-Language Pathology and Founder of Ujima Language and Literacy
Dr. Marnie K. Watson, Associate Professor, Sociology, Anthropology, & Gerontology and Co-Director for Ozarks Poverty Research
MODERATOR: Dr. Katherine Gilbert, Associate Professor, English and Director, Humanities and Ethics Center, Drury University
Parking Information
Free public parking is available one block north of Park Central Square at E. Olive St. and N. Boonville Ave. The 2-hour parking limit is enforced Monday through Friday, 9 AM - 5 PM. After hours, parking is unlimited. Additional parking is available at the 230 N. Campbell Ave. Parking Garage.
Saturday, April 5
Civics in Action: Initiatives and Impact Panel Discussion
Drew Lewis Foundation @ The Fairbanks | 1126 N Broadway Ave, Springfield, MO
Doors open at 9:30 am | Panel Discussion at 10 am
Coffee and light breakfast refreshments will be available
Join us to explore the power of engaged citizenry and discover ways to get involved! Celebrate the vital role of civic leadership and citizen-driven initiatives in shaping the region’s future. This panel discussion spotlights local organizations dedicated to strengthening civic engagement, fostering community connections, and driving meaningful change. Attendees will gain insight into ongoing civic-based efforts, hear stories of active citizenry, and learn about initiatives making an impact. Audience Q&A included.
This session is made possible in partnership with the Drew Lewis Foundation, with additional support from the History Museum on the Square.
Panelists:
- Erin Danastasio, Executive Director, Hatch
- Brandi VanAntwerp, President/CEO, United Way of the Ozarks
- Meghan Storey, Director of RISE, Drew Lewis Foundation (DLF)
- Catherine Upp, President, Better Block SGF
MODERATOR: Kaitlyn McConnell, Founder, Ozarks Alive.
Parking Information
Parking is available on Broadway St. or in the back parking lot.
Saturday, April 5
Engaged Neighbor, Engaged Citizenry: How Neighboring Strengthens Civic Life Armchair Conversation
Drew Lewis Foundation @ The Fairbanks | 1126 N Broadway Ave, Springfield, MO
Doors open at 11:15 am | Panel Discussion at 11:30 am
How can we strengthen connections and build more engaged communities by being better neighbors? This session explores the findings from The State of Neighboring in Missouri (2022-2024) study, which examines shifting trends in community connection and neighborly engagement. Study author David Burton will share historical shifts in the act of neighboring, key survey insights, and the impact of declining personal interactions on our communities. Through compelling data, local neighboring stories, and actionable strategies, this moderated discussion will highlight initiatives like Missouri Good Neighbor Week, the Engaged Neighbor Pledge, and the Engaged Neighbor Program—designed to make kindness, connection, and civic involvement an essential part of community life. Attendees will leave with steps to strengthen their neighborhoods and contribute to rebuilding trust, engagement, and resilience in their own communities.
This session is made possible in partnership with the Drew Lewis Foundation.
Panelists:
- David Burton, Community Development Specialist, University of Missouri Extension
- Michael Brittain, Community Leader, Restore SGF and the Neighborhood Advisory Council Clen Committee
MODERATOR: Caitlin Yager, Program Director, Missouri Humanities
Parking Information
Parking is available on Broadway St. or in the back parking lot.
Saturday, April 5
Engaging the Next Generation: The Future of Civic Participation Panel Discussion
Mother’s Brewing Company | 215 S Grant Ave, Springfield, MO
Doors open at 1:45 pm | Panel Discussion at 2:00 pm
How can we connect people across generations to create lasting change? This session explores the power of civic engagement at all ages while highlighting initiatives that bring young changemakers and experienced leaders together to build stronger communities. Attendees will hear stories from voices dedicated to fostering civic responsibility, advocacy, and participation— while discovering ways to support and amplify efforts that drive meaningful change.
This session is made possible in partnership with the Mother’s Brewing Company with additional support from the History Museum on the Square and Springfield Regional Arts Council.
Panelists:
- Leslie Forrester, Executive Director, Springfield Regional Arts Council
- Christopher Hoeman, Past President, Leadership Springfield
- Ari’el Horton, 9th Grade, Parkview High School and Graduate, Leadership Springfield – Youth Civic Program.
- Zion Stevens, Advisory Board Member, Paws to the Polls and Board Member, League of Women Voters of Southwest Missouri
- Jesse Tyler, Co-owner, SGFCO
Grace Wasson, Student and Current President, Paws to the Polls Initiative, Missouri State University
MODERATOR: Spencer Harris, President, Mostly Serious
Parking Information
On-street parking is available near Mother’s. Limited parking is available in the south lot, with overflow parking in the gravel lot at N. Grant Ave. and College.
Saturday, April 5
Civics on Tap Interactive Closing Event
Mother’s Brewing Company | 215 S Grant Ave, Springfield, MO
Doors open at 3:30 pm | Program at 4:15 pm – 5:15 pm
Wrap up the symposium experience with “Civics on Tap,” a lively, non-partisan event featuring conversation, drinks, and interactive civics activities. Presented by the History Museum on the Square, attendees are invited to join us at Mother’s Brewing Company for a relaxed and engaging event, tapping into the fascinating world of democracy, government, and citizenry.
Inspired by the museum’s Civics on the Square student programs, participants will engage with the foundations of government in a way that’s both educational and enjoyable. Whether attendees are civics enthusiasts or simply curious about the inner workings of government, this event is designed for adults looking to learn, connect, and have fun.
This session is made possible in partnership with the Springfield Regional Arts Council, with additional support from the History Museum on the Square.
Parking Information
On-street parking is available near Mother’s. Limited parking is available in the south lot, with overflow parking in the gravel lot at N. Grant Ave. and College.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of Ozarks Engaged. Register today!
Ozarks Engaged is made possible by the generous support of our sponsors and partners.
