Future of Museums Summit
THE
MUSEUM SUMMIT
VIRTUAL • OCTOBER 15-16, 2025
More information is coming soon.
WHAT IS THE MUSEUM SUMMIT?
On October 15-16, 2025, the American Alliance of Museums is hosting The Museum Summit. Building on our popular Future of Museums Summit from recent years, the virtual event reaches museum professionals across the field and around the globe. This year’s Summit will focus on two themes:
Day 1: Mission, Values, and the Politics of Pressure
Day 2: The Next Era of Volunteerism
More information on the Summit, including how to register, is coming soon.
THE DETAILS
October 15-16, 2025
October 15: 1-5 pm ET
October 16: 1-5 pm ET
Virtual
Mission, Values, and the Politics of Pressure
Museums increasingly face pressure to dilute their values or alter their programming—whether in response to Executive Orders, political influence, or funding constraints. These challenges are rarely one-sided, with expectations emerging from across the political spectrum. How can museums stay rooted in their mission while building resilient financial models and making principled decisions in the face of competing expectations?
Day 1 of The Museum Summit explores strategies for navigating external pressures with integrity, transparency, and long-term sustainability.
The Next Era of Volunteerism
As cultural and economic landscapes shift, traditional models of volunteerism are under strain. Fewer people may have the time or flexibility to serve, and the benefits of volunteering—social connections, personal fulfillment, professional skills—often remain out of reach for those without financial security. How can museums envision a more inclusive future for volunteerism—one that values all forms of contribution, addresses systemic inequities, and strengthens community ties?
Day 2 of The Museum Summit explores models for engaging volunteers in ways that are equitable, sustainable, and mission-aligned.
WHAT ATTENDEES ARE SAYING
Here is what last year’s Summit attendees had to say:
“A glimpse into the future!”
“I was able to pull the innovative ideas I learned and use them for my own museum. I was enlightened and challenged during the presentations, and I plan to use the rest of the month to dip into the session recordings.”
“The issues covered in the Summit are the same ones we’re working through at my institution. I found the sessions extremely useful and have already used what I learned in conversations with my colleagues.”
“So well designed!”
“First time attending a digital conference and I’m a huge fan now! Great job!!”
PEOPLE & LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Every community owes its existence to generations from around the world who contributed their hopes, dreams, and energy to making the history that led to this moment. Some were brought here against their will, some were drawn to leave their distant homes in hopes of better lives, some were forced from their homelands, and some have lived on this land for more generations than can be counted. Honoring truth is essential to building a just and equitable world. While acknowledgment is important, it is only a beginning.
We acknowledge the Piscataway people, on whose ancestral lands the American Alliance of Museums’ office is located.
Please take a moment to consider the many realities of violence, displacement, migration, and colonization as we gather together for the Future of Museums Summit. We must hold ourselves accountable for the necessary work to uncover truths in the museum field and beyond. We encourage you to use this native lands map so you can learn what lands you occupy—visit: native-land.ca.
The American Alliance of Museums’ mission is to champion museums and nurture excellence in partnership with our members and allies.
