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: https://www.aam-us.org/programs/manage-your-career/professional-development-programs/museum-leadership-academy/

Application Information Application Deadline: June 22, 2026 Notification of Acceptance: July 3, 2026

Name

First NameLast Name

Institution

Job Title

Address

Street Address

Street Address Line 2

CityState / 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?

Is your institution currently a member of the American Alliance of Museums?

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

For additional questions, contact Dean Phelus at dphelus@aam-us.org.