AAM Leadership Academy Application
In 2026, the American Alliance of Museums (AAM), in partnership with Michigan State University (MSU), will launch its inaugural Leadership Academy for museum CEOs and senior executives. The AAM Leadership Academy is a catalytic experience for mid-career and senior museum professionals who are ready to lead—not just manage—transformational change. Co-created by AAM and MSU, the Academy combines academic rigor with field-tested strategies to prepare leaders for the complex challenges facing museums today.
Program Overview
Audience
: Museum CEOs and senior executives (C-suite or equivalent) with supervisory responsibilities
Dates:
October 5–9, 2026
Location:
Michigan State University Detroit Center
Hotel:
AC Hotel at the Bonstelle
Format:
Seven in-depth modules delivered over 4.5 days, plus year-long virtual engagement
Cohort Size:
40 participants
Tuition:
$5,000 (reduced to $2,500 for the pilot cohort through scholarship support; travel and lodging not included) Participants will engage in an immersive, in-person experience designed to address critical leadership challenges and develop actionable strategies for institutional and personal impact. For additional details and schedule information, please visit:
Application Information
Application Deadline:
June 22, 2026
Notification of Acceptance:
July 3, 2026
Name
*
First Name
Last Name
Institution
*
Job Title
*
Address
*
Street Address
Street Address Line 2
City
State / Province
Postal / Zip Code
Work Phone Number
*
Please enter a valid phone number.
Format: (000) 000-0000.
Cell Phone Number
*
Please enter a valid phone number.
Format: (000) 000-0000.
Email
*
example@example.com
Years of experience in a senior leadership role
*
Are you currently an individual member of the American Alliance of Museums?
Yes
No
Unsure
Is your institution currently a member of the American Alliance of Museums?
Yes
No
Unsure
Application Materials
See below on how to submit the following:
1. Personal Statement 2. Resume or CV
1. Personal Statement (maximum 500 words)
Please address the following:
Commitment to the Program:
Confirm your understanding of the program format and your ability to fully participate.
Motivation:
Why do you want to participate? What aspects of the Academy align with your professional goals?
Leadership Challenge:
Describe a current leadership challenge you are facing in your role.
Priority Project:
Identify a project or initiative you plan to advance following the program and how participation will support that work.
2. Resume or CV (maximum three pages)
Include: Leadership roles and responsibilities Key accomplishments relevant to your current position Significant contributions to the museum field
Submit your Personal Statement and Resume or CV
*
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For additional questions, contact Dean Phelus at
dphelus@aam-us.org
.
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