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Awe, Belonging, and Contemplation in Interpretation

In Partnership with Dr. Dacher Keltner and Dr. Yuria Celidwen

Project Overview and Key Takeaways

Interpretive teams from natural, cultural, and historical sites have been invited to participate in a collaborative case study exploring how interpretation can foster Awe, Belonging, and Contemplation through inclusive storytelling and community partnership.

Led by renowned University of California-Berkeley researchers Dr. Yuria Celidwen and Dr. Dacher Keltner, this project will guide selected sites in developing and testing new interpretive programming that meaningfully engages with priority communities and expands how visitors experience connection, emotion, and understanding.

By the end of the project, each team will have developed three interpretive initiatives involving the principles of Awe, Belonging, and Contemplation (ABC), highlighting the uniqueness of each site, target audience, and project. These initiatives will illustrate how ABC practices improve interpretation, support partnerships in diverse communities, and generate benefits for visitors’ continued engagement, learning, and well-being.

What Participation Includes

  • Collaborative Development: Each participating site will design and implement an interpretive experience informed by ABC principles
  • On-Site Visits: Dr. Celidwen and Dr. Keltner will conduct one in-person visit at each site for hands-on workshops, feedback, and project refinement
  • Shared Learning: Sites will meet periodically (virtually) throughout the year to share progress, challenges, and successes
  • Conference Presentation: Final findings and insights will be presented collectively at the 2026 NAI National Conference in Oakland, California (November 17–21, 2026)

Who Should Apply

Interpretive teams at interpretive sites who:

  • Are committed to developing knowledge, practice, and partnerships with diverse communities aligned with the characteristics of each site
  • Wish to innovate around emotional, inclusive, and community-driven storytelling
  • Can dedicate staff time and institutional support over the course of the year

Timeline

January 5, 2026: Applications open
January 26, 2026: Applications due
January 27–February 6: Review of applicants
February 9, 2026: Sites/teams selected
March 2026: Virtual orientation kick-off meeting with all 3 groups
April–July 2026: On-site collaboration visits
August 2026: Final assessment meeting with all 3 groups (virtual)
November 2026: Final analysis and presentation at NAI 2026 in Oakland, California

Application Details

Applications open January 5, 2025 and close January 26, 2026. Selected sites will be notified by February 9, 2026.

Apply Today!

Eligibility

  • The applying organization must be a natural, cultural, or historical interpretive site
  • At least one staff member must be an active NAI member or join prior to acceptance
  • Sites must demonstrate commitment to inclusive, community-based interpretation and long-term implementation of project outcomes
  • Teams should include at least two active participants (interpreters, community liaison, or program manager)
  • Consideration will only be given to sites in the US and Canada

Expectations of Selected Sites

  • Participate in a project kickoff orientation (virtual) in early 2026
  • Host one 2- to 3-day on-site visit from Dr. Celidwen and Dr. Keltner during the year (at no cost to the site for travel expenses)
  • Engage in virtual group meetings for reflection and exchange
  • Implement or prototype an interpretive initiative informed by the project’s research themes to carry out in 2026
  • Present outcomes at the 2026 NAI National Conference in Oakland, California

Application

Applicants will be asked to submit:

  • Statement of Interest (250-500 words)
    • Why your site is interested in this opportunity
    • How your current interpretive work aligns with the themes of awe, belonging, contemplation, or inclusion
    • What you hope to gain or contribute to the collaborative study
  • Your top 3 initiatives or programs to which you would like to apply ABC principles
    • A practice, walk, workshop, program, etc
  • Letter of Commitment
    • Letter of commitment from supervisor outlining their support of the time commitment for this project

Apply Today!

Selection Considerations

Applications will be evaluated based on:

  • Alignment with Project Goals: Demonstrated interest in integrating awe, belonging and contemplation into interpretation
  • Community Partnership: Evidence of genuine, ongoing collaboration or a strong plan for meaningful partnership with priority communities
  • Feasibility and Commitment: Capacity to dedicate staff time, host site visits, and sustain engagement throughout the year
  • Innovation and Learning Potential: Readiness to experiment with new interpretive approaches and share lessons learned
  • Diversity of Sites and Applications: The final selections will represent a range of geographic regions, site types, and cultural perspectives
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