The event will begin with Dr. Sarah Dees* from Iowa State University discussing her work on Dolly Parton as a spiritual figure, followed by a conversation about Dolly’s place in American Christianity and American culture more broadly and time for audience questions.

Afterward, we’ll transition into the Dollybration, a more informal celebration of Dolly and her legacy. Elements currently planned/in development include:

• Dolly music, including a curated Dolly-and-spirituality playlist

• Refreshments and Dolly-inspired treats

• Pink, butterflies, rhinestones, etc.

• Opportunities for audience participation/reflection

• A childhood-literacy component inspired by Dolly’s Imagination Library

• Collaboration with Prairie Lights on children’s books/giving

• QR codes for the playlist and opportunities to support childhood literacy

• Possible additional musical elements

*Dr. Dees recently published a Conversation piece, “Dolly Parton was more than a musical idol — for some fans, she was a spiritual icon,” which you can read here: https://theconversation.com/dolly-parton-was-more-than-a-musical-idol-for-some-fans-she-was-a-spiritual-icon-290511