Community Corner
Farmington Hills Woman Honored for Volunteer Work
After 15 years of volunteer service, Ann Bollan reflects on the personal rewards that come with volunteering at the Detroit Institute of Arts.
Fifteen years ago, Ann Bollan was approaching retirement from the Troy School District and wanted to find a volunteer opportunity that suited her interests.
"I always had a love of art, but I didn't have any special talent in that area," said Bollan, a Farmington Hills resident.
She found herself at the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) as a weekly volunteer.
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"Volunteering at the DIA allows me to be around great works of art and help others enjoy it, too," she said. "Everyone is happy about being there so it's a fun place to be."
On June 7, the DIA held its annual Volunteer Council meeting, where special honors were awarded to volunteers with 15, 25, and 40 years of service. Bollan was presented with a 15-year pin and was treated to a luncheon in the Great Hall with fellow volunteers.
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"A great museum in a great city must be supported by great volunteers," said DIA Director Graham W. J. Beal. "The honors awarded here are just a small measure of our gratitude."
As a member of the Gallery Information Committee, Bollan assists visitors by directing them to galleries and providing information. She logs an average of ten hours per month of service time.
"We meet and welcome people from all over the world," said Bollan. "It's exciting. There's a great energy when you meet these people who've heard about a certain exhibit, and just as exciting to help those who come in needing suggestions about where to go first."
Bollan's favorite spots to share with museum guests are the Diego Rivera mural and the contemporary art galleries.
In addition to her interaction with museum patrons, Bollan cherishes the other volunteers and museum staff.
"I've formed many lovely friendships there," she said. "I find that part of it very rewarding as well."
When she's not volunteering at the DIA, Bollan enjoys visiting other museums. In the past six months, she's visited the Dali Museum in St. Petersburg, FL, the Milwaukee Art Museum in Milwaukee, WI, and the Art Institute of Chicago.
Bollan plans to continue volunteering with the DIA indefinitely.
"I want to try to see if I can get the 25-year award," she said.
