Big Idea
The Big Idea highlights fresh thinking and new perspectives in the humanities through essays and online conversations.
Online events can be viewed at work, at home, or at a livestream event in your community. Want to host a Big Idea in-person, livestream event? See below for instructions.
Fall 2024: Storytelling in Museums
Kansas museums are changing, sharing old stories in new ways and uncovering stories that have shaped our communities and our state. New voices and new perspectives are expanding our opportunities to learn more about Kansas. Join host Dr. Valerie Mendoza as we explore contemporary museums across Kansas and how they approach their roles as storytellers.
Big Idea events are broadcast live on Zoom at 12 noon. Free, but registration is required. (Can't attend live? Register for the event and we will send you a link to watch on HK's YouTube channel.)
September 13: Indigenous Storytelling in Museums
Jancita Warrington, Executive Director of the Kansas Native American Affairs Commission, and Travis Campbell, Director of the Haskell Cultural Center & Museum, with host Dr. Valerie Mendoza as they discuss the future of telling Indigenous history in Kansas. Click here to register
October 11: African American Storytelling in Museums
Denise Sherman, Executive Director, and Brittany Beck, Curator, The Kansas African American Museum, and Dr. Carmaletta Williams, Executive Director, Black Archives of Mid-America, in conversation with Big Idea host Dr. Valerie Mendoza. They will discuss the future of sharing African American stories in Kansas museums. Click here to register
November 22: Women's Stories in Museums
Dr. Sarah Bell, Director, and Donna Rae Pearson, Curator, Kansas Museum of History, in conversation with Big Idea host Dr. Valerie Mendoza as they discuss the future of telling women's stories in museums. Click here to register
Host a Big Idea Livestream Event
Libraries, museums, and other public spaces are invited to host in-person "watch parties" of the Big Idea live broadcast. A fun and easy program opportunity that provides an opportunity for community members who do not have access to a reliable internet connection, or for folks who simply want to enjoy the company of others as we spark conversations.
Requirements to host a Big Idea Livestream event:
- Have a stable internet connection to stream the event
- Have a sufficient sound system for all audience participants to hear
- Have a projector or screen for all audience participants to see
- A staff person on site to monitor and submit questions during the Q & A portion of the online event
- Promote your livestream event in advance of the event date
- Submit a final report with attendance information and additional details
Apply to host a Big Idea Livestream
Note: Individuals participating from home or work should sign up at the links found above at the end of the event descriptions.