The aamc foundation will expand a leadership development program to support two cohorts of early career curators from underrepresented backgrounds

The Aamc Foundation received a $397,844 National Leadership Grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (CFDA 45.312) to expand a leadership development program for two cohorts of early career art curators from underrepresented backgrounds over a three-year period from September 1, 2023 to June 30, 2026. The program will provide participants with virtual sessions on relevant topics, one-on-one mentoring from senior curator liaisons, three diversity and inclusion workshops, two in-person training workshops, and attendance at the annual Art Curators Conference. This initiative is intended to help the selected curators develop practical competencies, expand their professional networks, and advance their careers in the museum field.

Each participant will be selected through an application process and paired with a senior curator liaison who is both representative of diverse communities and recognized for their commitment to mentorship. Over the course of one year, each cohort will contribute to and participate in activities including: virtual sessions with speakers on timely topics; one-on-one meetings with liaisons for advice and guidance; three dedicated sessions with an esteemed deai consultant; two in-person workshops; and the annual art curators conference. Participation in the program will provide members with an expanded professional network, and improvement in practical competencies for managing their personal, professional, and community lives.