Sep 1, 2026

Membership Means More: A Mini Mic Conversation with Dorothy

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Membership Manager headshot dorothy

What does it mean to be a member of the Dixon Gallery and Gardens?

To find out, Communications Coordinator Morgan sat down with Dorothy, the Dixon’s Membership Manager, for a mini mic conversation about member perks, meaningful support, and the perfect soundtrack for a walk through the gardens.

When asked to describe the “vibe” of a Dixon membership, Dorothy compared it to receiving an invitation from one particularly cool friend.

“Their house is full of really cool things, and you know you’re going to meet some really cool people,” she said. “It’s welcoming and friendly—but you kind of have to be a part of it to really get it.”

Are you down to double your impact?

This September and October, if you join or upgrade your membership, you'll make it count TWICE! There’s never been a better time to become a Dixon member—or upgrade your current membership!

Thanks to a Membership Match Grant from The Assisi Foundation of Memphis, every new or upgraded membership purchased during September and October will be matched dollar-for-dollar.

That means your membership goes twice as far in supporting the Dixon’s exhibitions, gardens, educational programs, and community outreach, all while giving you access to a year of member benefits.

Already a member? Upgrade your membership, and the full cost of your upgraded level will count toward the match.

Make it count—twice. Join or upgrade today!

Making Memphis More Beautiful

Although membership comes with plenty of benefits, its impact extends far beyond the individual member. Membership support helps the Dixon create exhibitions, bring remarkable works of art to Memphis, maintain 17 acres of gardens, and provide educational programs and experiences for the community—often at no cost.

Most importantly, members help make free admission possible for everyone.

“You are helping to make Memphis a better and more beautiful place with your support,” Dorothy said. “You not only get incredible access to everything the Dixon offers; you’re also supporting us in giving that access to others. Truly, it’s a win-win.”

With your membership, you’ll receive core benefits:

-  Invitations to member-only exhibition receptions, Plant Sale early access day, and Holiday Open House

- Subscription to our quarterly magazine, The Leaf

- Free or discounted admission to programs and events

- 10% discount to the café and the museum gift shop

- The joy of knowing you're making art, gardens, education, and culture more accessible for our entire community

wooden bridge covered in fall colored leaves
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A Membership for Everyone

Dorothy admits to being a little biased, but she believes Dixon membership offers something for everyone.

“There’s always something to do here, and there are so many different things you can get plugged into,” she said. “If you like coming to parties, we have tons of really great events. Everyone can find something that interests them. It’s one of the things I love most about the Dixon.”

For Dorothy, one of the best parts of her job is meeting members in person. After seeing their names while working with the membership database and preparing mailings, she enjoys finally putting faces to those familiar names.

“Sometimes it makes my entire day,” she said. “I love getting to know our members, talking with them, and hearing what they think makes the Dixon special.”

members sitting on fountain and strolling gardens at art on the rocks event

More Than a Dixon Membership

Members receive special access and opportunities at the Dixon, but one of the most valuable benefits can also travel with them. Through reciprocal admission privileges, qualifying Dixon memberships can provide free admission to more than 500 participating museums, galleries, and gardens across the country.

Closer to home, members can also take advantage of the Dixon’s exhibitions, events, and ongoing educational opportunities—all while helping ensure that many programs remain free and accessible to the wider community.

The Perfect Time to Join

There has never been a more exciting time to become a Dixon member. As the Dixon celebrates its 50th anniversary, new and longtime members alike have the opportunity to be part of an extraordinary milestone.

“Now is an incredible time to join the Dixon,” Dorothy said. “We’re celebrating our 50th anniversary this year. Now is the time to be part of something special.”

Dorothy also shared a heartfelt message for the members who already make the Dixon’s work possible.

“Thank you to all of our current members,” she said. “It’s such an incredible journey to be part of with you. We couldn’t do it without your support.”

And what song would Dorothy choose as the soundtrack for a walk through the gardens? “Strawberry Blond” by Mitski—a fitting choice for romping through the Dixon’s beautiful grounds. Her favorite place to enjoy them is the Woodland Garden, especially near the fountain.

Ready to become part of all the Dixon does? Visit dixon.org/membership, give us a call, or stop by during your next visit. Our team is always happy to help you find the membership that is right for you.

Member Appreciation Day Group