Missouri Humanities, a non-profit organization, is working with several local organizations, including the Missouri State University Libraries, to present the 7th Annual Springfield Symposium in April.

Join us on April 12th-13th in Springfield, Missouri, for an immersive experience that explores “Ozarks Marvels: Innovation for the Common Good.” All sessions are FREE and open to the public, with the option to attend any or all events.

The kick-off event will be held on Friday evening, April 12th, in Kentwood Hall. The musicians will include Emalee Flatness, Lillyanne McCool, and others. The discussion panelist include Wayne Glenn, Bruce Herschend, and Rachael West.

More info from the website: 

Culture, Community, and Caves (Panel Discussion & Live Musical Performance)

FRIDAY, APRIL 12

7:00 PM (DOORS OPEN AT 6:30 PM) AT MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSITY’S KENTWOOD HALL – CRYSTAL BALLROOM (700 E. ST. LOUIS STREET, SPRINGFIELD, MO)

For centuries Missouri caves have played vital roles in the local culture and sense of community. This plenary session will highlight caves as innovative spaces where culture and community flourish. Music, dancing, dining, and other community-based cultural activities happen in caves, past and present. A panel of experts will share their stories and discuss how caves, of all places, support culture and community in unique and surprising ways. 

As a special ode to the long-standing tradition of live musical performances in local Ozark caves, Emalee Flatness Combs, a folksinger, guitarist, and student of traditional folk ballads, and accompanying musicians, will bring to life the sounds of a historic cave performance.   

In partnership with Missouri State University Libraries and Missouri Folk Arts, you won’t want to miss this kick-off session as we explore the intersection of culture, community, and caves—and the profound ways in which this underground natural landscape shapes human experiences and traditions.