We are recruiting 6 to 10 individuals to serve on the second year of our Advisory Board dedicated to diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion.
RESPONSIBILITY
Governed by a Charter, MCN’s DEAI Advisory Board is a consultative body made up of community members tasked with representing and advocating for the interests of the MCN community on DEAI matters. The Advisory Board supports and guides the work of MCN in DEAI initiatives and begin our ongoing process to make the organization—and the field of museum technology—more inclusive.
COMMITMENT
This is a two-year commitment. The Advisory Board will meet at most on a quarterly basis. We encourage one face-to-face meeting per year at MCN’s annual conference, although the ability to attend the conference is not a prerequisite for joining the advisory board.
SELECTION CRITERIA
We hope to bring on around 6 to 10 new members who represent wide-ranging dimensions of diversity, with an eye towards giving voice to under-represented groups. For our organization, diversity means a lot of things. Advisors will advocate for groups that are historically marginalized due to race, gender and gender expression, sexual orientation, ability, economic background, and age. We’re also looking for members from a wide range of cultural institutions and professional roles, considering dimensions such as subject matter expertise, organization size, and stage in career.
We’re pleased to announce the 2019 call for candidates to be considered to serve on the Board of Directors of MCN. MCN is looking to recruit four (4) board members to replace those whose 3-year term will be ending in November.
Why serve on the MCN board of Directors?
Envisioning a world in which all museums are empowered digitally to achieve their missions, MCN’s mission is to grow the digital capacity of museum professionals by connecting them to ideas, information, opportunities, proven practices, and each other.
For many past and current board members, serving on the board of MCN is a way to give back to an organization and a community that have supported them throughout their careers in museums. It’s also an invaluable opportunity for personal and professional development: join a great team of talented museum professionals who, together with MCN’s Executive Director and staff, shape the strategic direction of the organization and continually find ways to better serve the needs of our community.
MCN is looking for community members from diverse backgrounds, and with varied skill sets, perspectives and voices to help MCN execute on its strategic vision and contribute their expertise to grow MCN’s capacity and impact. As a newly appointed board member, you will join us in San Diego for your first board meeting on November 4, 2019 to develop a tactical Work Plan that will guide the work of the organization and the Board throughout 2020 in support of the larger 3-year strategic vision.
While all members of the community with an interest in serving MCN are welcome to apply, this year we are particularly interested in candidates who can bring specific expertise, or have a background and experience, in one or more of the following key areas:
Sustainable practices, business modeling and development
As a community organization, MCN’s sole purpose is to serve its members. Over the next three years MCN’s leadership will make strategic changes in order to mitigate risks and increase the organization’s long-term financial and operational sustainability. If you have expertise running programs or organizations that resulted in demonstrated sustainable outcomes, we want to hear from you. Skills or expertise in business development, strategic partnerships, securing sponsorships and fundraising are equally desirable.
Grant Writing and Fundraising
MCN recognizes that it must diversify its revenue streams as well as leverage the organization’s non-profit status to support its expansion in various programmatic areas. We are seeking a board member who has a successful track record in securing grant funding or fundraising for program development, and can help us select funders and communicate our vision to them.
Program Development
We’re seeking a board member who has experience developing organizational programs, such as professional development (that includes mentorship), designing a content strategy, events & conferences or teams that empower community members to act with more autonomy to address their needs. If you’ve designed and led volunteer programs that are anchored within the community, or helped existing programs successfully expand their capacity, we’d like to hear from you.
Digital/IT strategy and systems infrastructure
Over the next two years MCN is committed to transforming our online tools to create a better user experience, and revamping our backend infrastructure to streamline organizational processes. We’re looking for someone who has experience designing or integrating backend infrastructures or architecture, or with a strong background in systems administration.
Marketing, Communications and PR
Clear, effective, and open communication with our members and the broader MCN community is critical to the success of our organization. Over the next few years MCN will develop, implement and expand the range of products we offer with the goal of increasing the value of membership for MCN members. We are seeking a board member with skills and experience in marketing and communication practices to design and implement new messaging and communication practices around these products and help us demonstrate their value to our members.
What’s expected of MCN Board members?
MCN’s board of Directors is both a governance and a working board. This means that in addition to being fiduciary guardians of this 503(c)(3) not-for-profit organization, our board members roll up their sleeves, put on their thinking caps, and dedicate a good portion of their time working on organizational projects. For most, this means taking an active role on one or more of our board committees.
As a working board, MCN Directors are expected to dedicate about 8-12 hours per month working on MCN business, including attending a monthly conference-call board call as well as other committee meetings. Additionally, you will be expected to attend two (2) annual board meetings in person: one the week of MCN’s annual conference (typically in November), and another, generally in the spring, the week of the Museums and the Web conference wherever that location may be. Directors cannot be compensated and MCN is not currently in a position to support its Directors for travel related expenses to attend these two annual in-person board meetings (expenses to attend board retreats are however fully covered).
Once appointed, MCN Directors serve a three-year term. For reference, we invite you to familiarize yourself with MCN’s By-Laws.
The MCN Governance Guidelines outline the expectations and responsibilities of board members:
8-12 hours of MCN-related work per month, depending upon activities
Play an active leadership role in delivering on MCN’s overall business in general and on assigned strategic priorities specifically
Attend and prepare for each board meeting
Be prepared and willing to lead the board and/or a committee
Join and participate actively in the activities of at least one committee
Follow, participate and contribute to online board discussions in a timely manner
Make every reasonable effort to bring financial support to the organization annually from external sources, e.g. identify and introduce sponsor prospects and secure sponsorships
Leverage personal relationships with others (including corporations, professional service firms, vendors, foundations, and individuals) to assist the staff of the organization with implementing fundraising strategies, including adding names of potential sources of support to the organization’s mailing list
Actively participate in the development of the annual conference
Attend the annual conference (board members receive a special discounted registration rate)
Actively participate in MCN fundraising efforts
Travel at their own cost (MCN is not currently in a position to cover travel expenses for board members) to attend two (2) annual board meetings in person: one the week of MCN’s annual conference (typically in November), and another, generally in the spring, the week of the Museums and the Web conference wherever that location may be Directors cannot be compensated and MCN does not pay Directors for travel or other related expenses (expenses to attend board retreats are however fully covered).
Who we’re looking for?
MCN encourages people from diverse backgrounds, institutions, and experiences to apply. MCN does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression and identity, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of its activities or operations.
In addition, to ensure that a diverse range of institutions are represented on the board, each individual institution may be represented by only one member of the board at any given time. Candidates are encouraged to review the current board members’ list below to check the institution that they are currently affiliated with.
What’s the nomination and appointment process?
To be considered by the 2019 Nominating Committee, please fill out and submit the online application form. If you believe someone you know would be a qualified candidate, please encourage them to apply. Applications are dueSunday June 30, 2019 at 11:59pm PT. We will let you know if we require additional information about your application.
What’s next?
MCN’s 2019 Nominating Committee will review all applications and propose a slate of candidates to the board of Directors for discussion, followed by a vote on the individual appointment of each proposed candidate for Director. We anticipate notifying successful candidates by late August 2019 at the latest (it’s often sooner). The announcement of newly appointed Directors will posted on our website and shared with the MCN community on MCN-L.
If you have any additional questions, please email the Executive Director.
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We encourage all qualified candidates to apply or hope that you will refer someone you think would be a qualified candidate.
Thank you for being a part of MCN.
MCN 2019 Nominating Committee
Elizabeth Bollwerk, President
Matt Tarr, VP-President Elect
Lori Byrd-McDevitt, Director
Courtney OCallagan, Director
Eric Longo, Executive Director
Current MCN Board members list with terms
Elizabeth Bollwerk (2015 – 2019), Thomas Jefferson Foundation
Greg Albers (2016 – 2019), The Getty
Lori Byrd McDevitt (2016 – 2019), Children’s Museum Indianapolis
Darren Milligan (2016 – 2019), Smithsonian, Center for Learning & Digital Access
Deborah Howes (2016 – 2019), Johns Hopkins University
Matt Tarr (2016 – 2020), American Museum of Natural History
Keir Winesmith (2017 – 2020), Winesmith Digital Studio
Samantha Diamond (2017 – 2020), CultureConnect
Susan Edwards (2017 – 2020), Hammer Museum
Desi Gonzalez (2017 – 2020), City of Austin
Mitchell Sava (2017 – 2020), Museum of Life and Science
Mara Kurlandsky (2018 – 2021), National Museum of Women in the Arts
Courtney OCallaghan (2018 – 2021), Freer Gallery of Art & Sackler Gallery
Nathan Adkisson (2018 – 2021), Local Projects
Doug Allen (2018 – 2021), The Nelson Atkins Museum of Art
The end of year is a busy time for everyone, but it’s a particularly busy time at MCN this year! Between now and early January, MCN offers a number of volunteer and professional development opportunities whose deadlines for application are fast approaching. Apply today to shape MCN and its programs, take advantage of professional development opportunities, expand your network, and add a line (or two) to your resume.
So to make sure you don’t miss that precious deadline, we’ve clarified all the available options!
MCN 2019 Mentorship Program
Application deadline: November 30, 2018 EXTENDED THRU DECEMBER 3, 2018 EOD Program duration: 9 months (January-November 2019) Openings: 20–24 spots for mentor/mentee pairs Questions? Email:profdev@mcn.edu Information | Mentor Application | Mentee Application
Now in its third year, MCN’s mentorship program offers a unique professional development opportunity whether you are a veteran or a newbie in the museum tech community. Expand your professional network, build and grow leadership skills, practice personal communication strategies, and much more.
DEAI Advisory Board
Application deadline: December 1, 2018 EXTENDED THRU DECEMBER 3, 2018 EOD Term: 1 year Openings: 12–20 Questions? Email:diversity@mcn.edu Information | Application
We’re assembling a new advisory board to focus on diversity, equity, accessibility and inclusion at MCN. Members will meet on a quarterly basis to share their expertise, advise on DEAI policies, help prioritize strategic goals, and support new initiatives.
Program Co-Chairs will provide leadership for the annual MCN Conference in 2019 and 2020, from sourcing members of the Program Committee to leading the conversation around a theme for the annual conference to developing general topic guidelines and organizing and scheduling a range of creative formats from workshops, to panels and presentations.
Under the leadership of the Program Co-Chairs, the Program Committee helps establish the conference theme and identify a keynote speaker. Committee members also review between 10-15 proposal submissions according to a variety of criteria designed to ensure quality, expertise, innovation and a fair representation of different perspectives and voices, especially from communities that are traditionally under-represented or minorities to ensure that the program of the annual conference reflects the diversity of the MCN community and the extended musetech community.
Wait, there’s more …
SIG Chairs Annual Elections
Application deadline: November 28, 2018 Online Elections: December 1-15, 2018 Term: 9 months (January-November 2019) Openings: 12 Questions? Email:sigs@mcn.edu Information
MCN members can join SIGs for free, and elections to elect SIGs’ chairs and co-chairs are held annually from December 1 through 15, 2018. If interested, ask SIG chairs.
Share you IT/digital skills to help improve MCN’s digital platforms!
MCN is calling out to all the tech/digital nerds out there to put their talent to work by contributing their time and effort, including product/tool research and assessment, coding, strategy, communications and writing, to improve MCN’s digital platforms so you can be a part of the greater sum of all of us by supporting MCN’s new strategic objective “[To] transform MCN’s online presence into a powerful and intuitive user-centered destination”.
We’re pleased to announce the 2018 call for candidates to be considered to serve on the Board of Directors of MCN. This year, MCN is looking to recruit four (4) Board members to replace those whose 3-year term will be ending in November.
From left to right starting with back row: Darren Milligan, Greg Albers, Keir Winesmith, Lori Byrd-McDevitt, Desi Gonzalez, Matt Tarr, Mitchell Sava, Bert Degenhart Drenth; front row: Samantha Diamond, Susan Edwards, Elizabeth Bollwerk, Laura Mann, Deborah Howes; Eric Longo in the center. Suse Anderson absent.
WHY SERVE ON THE MCN BOARD OF DIRECTORS?
MCN is a membership-based professional association that provides a space for museum professionals to connect, share resources and best practices, develop their careers, and advance digital transformation in museums.
Founded in 1967 by a group of early museum technologists eager to explore practical applications for computers in museums, MCN has provided a space for our community to connect, share their experiences and support each other, thereby leading the thinking around emerging technologies in museums. Much has changed in the past 50 years, but what sparked MCN to life then, remains unchanged today – this is a testament to its vibrancy and relevance as we continue to lead our museums into the future.
For many past and current Board members, serving on the board of MCN is a way to give back to an organization and a community that have helped them throughout their museum careers, but it also provides an enriching and valuable professional development experience. Serving on the Board gives you the opportunity to be part of a team of talented museum professionals who, together with MCN’s Executive Director and staff, shape the strategic direction of the organization and constantly think about new ways to better serve the needs of our community.
WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR
The Board recently spent a weekend on retreat to develop MCN’s 3-year Strategic Plan (2019-2021). As a Board member you will be integral to achieving MCN’s strategic objectives and play an important role in the growth and evolution of the organization. At their first Board meeting in November in Denver, new Board members will actively participate in developing the next calendar year Work Plan, which is a series of smaller goals and tactical tasks that support the objectives of the 3-year Strategic Plan, and guides the work of the organization and the Board for the whole year.
For MCN to have a meaningful impact on its community, it is essential that the Board of Directors be composed of committed individuals who have the relevant skills and a wide range of perspectives to effectively lead the organization. The freshly developed 2019-2021 Strategic Plan (which we will share with the community this fall) will focus on:
Ensuring that MCN grows in a sustainable fashion
Expand opportunities for community members to actively contribute to MCN’s projects and programs
Transform MCN’s online presence into a user-centered destination for all of your MCN needs
Simplifying MCN’s various offerings as well as how we communicate their benefits to you
So we’re looking for leaders in our field to help MCN execute the current 3-year Strategic Plan (2019-2021), and to contribute their expertise to make MCN the “go-to” professional support and development organization for digital technology in museums.
While all members of the community with an interest in serving MCN are welcome to apply, this year we are particularly interested in candidates who bring specific expertise, or have a background and experience, in one or more of the following key areas:
Sustainable practices and development expertise: as a community-centered organization, MCN’s sole purpose is to serve its members. Faced with limited resources and capacity, MCN needs to be mindful both strategically and operationally to how it can become self-sustainable. If you have expertise running programs or organizations that resulted in demonstrated sustainable outcomes, we want to hear from you. Skills or expertise in business development, strategic partnerships, sponsorship and fundraising are equally desirable.
Community development: we’re seeking a board member who has empowered communities to act with more autonomy while effectively running unique support functions for the community. If you’ve led volunteer programs, fortified community-based practices, or inspired large groups to rally around projects, we’d like to hear from you.
Systems infrastructure: if backend infrastructure, systems administration, architecture and integration are your claim to fame, let us know. We’re looking for someone with a strong IT systems background.
Product development and communications strategy: the objective here is to align all of MCN’s present and future offerings on a model that emphasizes the benefits so that you clearly understand their value. We are seeking a board member with the skills and experience to help us strategically develop, implement and support a range of products or offerings. If you have prior experience in product development, as well as demonstrated skills in marketing and communication practices around messaging, we want to hear from you specifically.
WHAT’S EXPECTED OF MCN BOARD MEMBERS?
MCN’s Board of Directors is both a governance and a working board. This means that in addition to the fiduciary duties expected from Directors of a 503(c)(3) not-for-profit organization, the Board members of MCN are also expected to volunteer their time in doing hands-on project work. For most, this means taking an active role on one or more of our internal committees.
As a working board, MCN Directors are expected to dedicate about 8-12 hours per month working on MCN business, including attending a monthly conference-call board call as well as other committee meetings. Additionally, they are also expected to attend two (2) annual board meetings in person: one the week of MCN’s Annual Conference (typically in November), and another, generally in the spring, the week of the Museums and the Web conference wherever that location may be. Directors cannot be compensated and MCN does not pay Directors for travel or other related expenses.
Once appointed, MCN Directors serve a three-year term. For reference, MCN’s By-Laws are posted on our website; feel free to familiarize yourself with them.
Play an active leadership role in delivering on MCN’s overall business in general and on assigned strategic priorities specifically
Attend and prepare for each Board meeting
Be prepared and willing to lead the Board and/or a committee
Join and participate actively in the activities of at least one committee
Follow, participate and contribute to online Board discussions in a timely manner
Make every reasonable effort to bring financial support to the Organization annually from external sources, e.g. identify and introduce sponsor prospects and secure sponsorships
Leverage personal relationships with others (including corporations, professional service firms, vendors, foundations, and individuals) to assist the staff of the Organization with implementing fundraising strategies, including adding names of potential sources of support to the Organization’s mailing list
Actively participate in the development of the annual conference
Attend the annual conference
Actively participate in MCN fundraising efforts
Travel at their own cost (MCN doesn’t cover travel expenses for Board members) to attend two (2) annual board meetings in person: one the week of MCN’s Annual Conference (typically in November), and another, generally in the spring, the week of the Museums and the Web conference wherever that location may be
Directors cannot be compensated and MCN does not pay Directors for travel or other related expenses
WHO WE’RE LOOKING FOR
MCN encourages people from diverse backgrounds, institutions, and experiences to apply. MCN does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression and identity, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of its activities or operations.
In addition, to ensure that a diverse range of institutions are represented on the Board, each individual institution may be represented by only one member of the Board at any given time. Candidates are encouraged to review the current Board members’ list below to check the institution that they are currently affiliated with.
WHAT’S THE NOMINATION AND APPOINTMENT PROCESS?
To be considered by the 2018 Nominating Committee, please fill out and submit the application form. If you believe someone you know would be a qualified candidate, please encourage them to apply. Applications are due Sunday July 31, 2018 at 11:59pm PT. We will let you know if we require additional information about your application.
WHAT’S NEXT?
MCN’s 2018 Nominating Committee will review all applications and propose a slate of candidates to the Board of Directors for discussion, followed by a vote on the individual appointment of each proposed candidate for Director. We anticipate notifying successful candidates by early September 2018 at the latest (it’s often sooner). The newly appointed Directors will also be announced on our website and shared with the MCN community on MCN-L.
WHAT IF I HAVE MORE QUESTIONS?
If you have any additional questions, please contact Eric Longo, MCN’s Executive Director at eric@mcn.edu.
We encourage all qualified candidates to apply or hope that you will refer someone you think would be a qualified candidate.
Time flies and before you know it we’ll all be in Denver for MCN2018. If you’ve always thought you’d love to contribute to the planning of the conference then this is your opportunity and we’d love to hear from you.
The MCN2018 Program Committee is seeking about 40 museum professionals to play a significant role in shaping this year’s conference, representing a diversity of institutions, perspectives, and skills. This committee will help shape this year’s conference which is being held Nov. 13-16 in Denver.
What does the Program Committee do?
Through online discussions, the Program Committee is a think tank that determines the most important themes and trends in the field, identifies new programming opportunities, and brainstorms possible speakers. Most significantly, members are the backbone of the conference proposal evaluation process. (But don’t worry—participating in the committee will not preclude you from submitting your own proposal!)
In February, the Program Committee will discuss and choose a theme for this year’s conference; soon after, the committee will identify possible keynote speakers.
In May, after the close of MCN’s Call for Proposals, individual session proposals are assigned for evaluation to Program Committee members with relevant professional expertise on the topic. Members are asked to provide feedback through a formalized process and are given 10-14 days to complete their evaluations. Next, the Program Co-Chairs assemble the conference schedule primarily based on the committee’s feedback.
If you have expertise in any of the following areas we are particularly interested.
Digital Education
Interpretive Media
Research and Evaluation
Informational Technology (IT)
Digital Asset Management (DAM)
Social Media
Marketing and Communications
Media Production & Branding
Leadership & Strategy
Data and Insights
Digital Imaging
Intellectual Property
Publishing
Experience Design
Digital Storytelling
We are actively seeking a diversity of organizations in both size and focus including, but not limited to:
Science Museums, Zoos, and/or Aquariums
Art Museums and Centers
Natural History Museums
Historic Houses
Libraries
Archives
including small, international and academic institutions.
If you are interested please submit details of your interest on the following online form. Have a question we didn’t answer here? Email the Program Co-Chairs at program@mcn.edu.
Deadline: Saturday, January 27th, 2018
-Adrienne Lalli Hills, Rob Weisberg, and Catherine Devine
I hope everyone has had the opportunity to Look Back at a great MCN 2017 and 50 years of MCN history in the amazing MCN50 Voices series of interviews, Take Action at their institutions and in their communities, and … Think Ahead about MCN 2018.
The past year has been such an amazing experience as one of the Program Co-Chairs, along with Jennifer Foley and Trish Oxford. With Jennifer and Trish stepping down after their two-year terms have concluded, MCN is looking for two people to take their place and, with me, help plan our annual conference in 2018, then taking the lead for 2019.
It’s a lot of work, but you’ll be part of a sizable leadership and management team of MCN colleagues, as well as a field full of people who want to speak at, attend, and contribute to MCN 2018.
Here are 10 highlights of my first year as Co-Chair:
Finding out just how much I already knew about the museum field—and how much there still is to learn.
Working with the committee of local museum technology professionals in our host city and finding out the amazing work being done there.
Crafting the theme, which starts pretty much right away and gets the Program Committee off to a rollicking start.
Developing Keynote speaker(s) ideas, also with the Program Committee. This year we had some innovative ideas and it was great to see them realized.
Calling for proposals in the spring—watching them trickle and then pour in, sending them out to the Program Committee for review, and then working together, with the help of a few hundred sticky notes, to turn them into a program.
The weekly Co-Chair conference call.
The conference itself, of course, which is a very different experience when you see it come together rather than just presenting.
And yet presenting was still a joy.
Developing the “other format” idea and receiving over two dozen proposals beyond the usual case studies, panels, and presentations.
My favorite—being able to say to people, “You should really propose that as a session!”
The official call for Co-Chair applications is below. Applications are due to program@mcn.edu by December 22 January 7 (now extended!); I’m happy to answer any and all questions. Thanks,
Rob Weisberg
MCN 2018 Conference Program Chair
Trish Oxford, MCN2017 Program Co-Chair
MCN Program Co-Chair 2018 & 2019
Position Title: Conference Program Co-Chair
Period: 2 years Start: late January 2018
Commitment: 3-5 hours/week throughout the year, increasing as the conference nears, with milestones in May and September, available full-time during the conference. Available one weekend in late March or early April for a site visit to that year’s conference location (paid for by MCN).
Compensation: the Conference Program Co-Chair is a volunteer role and is therefore not compensated; however, MCN does offer complimentary registration to the annual conference during the year(s) you serve.
Location: MCN’s Annual Conference is a North American based-conference that supports global involvement and has an emerging international following. The successful candidate is required to attend the Conference in person, as well as participate in regular phone or online meetings.
MCN2018 will take place in Denver, November 13–16, 2018, when the location of MCN2019 will be announced.
Deadline for applying: Extended until end of day, January 7!
Description: MCN is looking for two thoughtful, motivated, and dynamic museum professionals to serve as MCN Conference Program Co-Chairs for a two-year term starting in January 2018. This is an opportunity to help shape a major museum technology conference now and in future years, immerse yourself in cutting edge developments in the sector, broaden your networks on a national level, and to gain experience and professional development in event programming.
The Conference Program Co-Chairs provide leadership for the annual MCN Conference, creating the program through the conception and organization of workshops, panels and presentations in many different formats, experimental programs, keynotes, special events, and innovations not yet imagined. With current Conference Program Chair Rob Weisberg, the newly appointed Conference Program Co-Chairs will work as a team to develop an experiential conference program that serves the evolving needs of the MCN community and then serve as lead Conference Program Co-Chairs for the 2019 conference.
The ideal candidate will be passionate about the intersection of museums and technology and interested in developing an innovative conference program featuring proposals from participants from a wide range of institutions, backgrounds, and perspectives. They will be knowledgeable about MCN and the conference, having attended MCN several times in the previous five years. They will have existing networks within the sector, a strong understanding of the issues confronting museums with regards to technology and the practice of digital, and appreciate the challenges facing their colleagues from many different kinds of institutions and departments in the field. They will be active in the museum or cultural technology community and knowledgeable of trusted sources of information, and will be a proactive self-starter and a calm problem-solver with excellent oral and written communication skills. They will be a creative thinker both about big issues and small details, diplomatic under pressure, and ready to learn and adapt over the course of planning this conference.
About MCN: MCN is a nonprofit organization whose core purpose is to foster innovation and excellence by supporting professionals who seek to transform the way their cultural organizations reach, engage, and educate their audiences using digital technologies. We do this by building a community that attracts, nurtures, inspires and sustains exceptional professionals. Learn more.
For further information and a full overview of responsibilities, email program@mcn.edu.
To apply, please send an email articulating why you think you’d be a good fit for this position, and noting any relevant experience to: program@mcn.edu. Please include a CV or link to your LinkedIn profile.
We’re pleased to announce the 2017 call for candidates to be considered for a seat on the Board of Directors of MCN. This year, MCN is looking to recruit five (5) board members to replace those whose term will be ending in November.
WHY SERVE ON THE MCN BOARD OF DIRECTORS?
MCN is a welcoming and candid community of professionals passionate about empowering individuals and their museums to address challenges and embrace opportunities within the evolving digital landscape.
For many, serving on the board of MCN is a way to give back to an organization and a community that have helped them throughout their museum careers, but you will also benefit greatly from the experience. Serving on the Board of MCN also gives you an opportunity to be part of a team of talented museum professionals who, together with MCN’s Executive Director, shape the strategic direction of the organization and constantly think about new ways to better serve the needs of our community.
WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR
2017 is a milestone year for MCN as it celebrates its 50th anniversary! Founded in 1967 by a group of museum professionals eager to explore how computers could change their work and that of museums, MCN has provided a space for our community to connect, share their experience and learn from each other, in order that we advance the thinking around emerging technologies in museums. Much has changed in the past 50 years, but what sparked MCN to life then, remains unchanged today – this is a testament to its vibrancy and relevance as we continue to lead our museums into the future.
For MCN to have a meaningful impact on its community, it is essential that the Board of Directors be composed of committed individuals that have the relevant skills and a wide range of perspectives to effectively lead the organization. Guided by the current 2016-2018 Strategic Plan, MCN is on a growth path, so this is an exciting time to be joining our Board.
We’re looking for leaders in our field to help MCN plan the next 3-year strategic priorities (2019-2021), and to contribute their expertise to make MCN the “go-to” professional support and development organization in our sector.
While all members of the community with an interest in serving MCN can certainly apply, we are particularly interested in candidates who bring specific expertise, or have a background and experience in one or more of the following key areas:
Membership development: In its 50th year, MCN is reexamining what it means to be a member organization. We are seeking a board member with the skills and experience to help us strategically develop, implement, and grow a new membership offer that best serves MCN members and the institutions as well as the community as a whole.
Fundraising / development expertise: To support its expansion in various programmatic areas, MCN is seeking a board member with skills in business development, strategic partnerships, sponsorship and fundraising development.
Strategy / planning / big picture thinking: In mid 2018, MCN will undertake a major new 3-year strategic planning process (2019-2021). We are seeking a board member with skills at strategic planning, big picture thinking, and organizational development to play a central role in the creation and roll out of our next 3-year strategic plan.
Marketing and community development: Communicating with our members and the broader MCN community is at the heart of what we do. We are seeking a board member with skills at marketing and community development to focus on the organization’s brand, messaging, and communication practices, particularly as we move into a new strategic planning cycle, and renew focus on our membership efforts.
Organizational diversity and inclusive practice: Conscious that diversity is only good as an idea when it is put in practice, we are recruiting for a dedicated board member to champion building inclusive practices into the organization’s fabric so that MCN is able to serve marginalized and underrepresented populations within our community and beyond.
WHAT’S EXPECTED OF MCN BOARD MEMBERS?
MCN’s Board of Directors is both a governance and a working board. In addition to the fiduciary duties expected from Directors of a 503(c)(3) not-for-profit organization, MCN Directors are also expected to volunteer some of their time and efforts in managing the organization according to MCN’s mission as well as the needs and interests of our community.
As a working board, MCN Directors are expected to dedicate about 8-12 hours per month working on MCN business, including attending a monthly conference-call board meeting and other committee meetings. Additionally, they are also expected to attend two (2) annual board meetings in person: one the week of MCN’s Annual Conference (typically in November), and another, generally in the spring, the week of the Museums and the Web conference wherever that location may be. Directors cannot be compensated and MCN does not pay Directors for travel or other related expenses.
Once appointed, MCN Directors serve a three-year term. We strongly encourage you to familiarize yourself with MCN’s By-Laws.
As a reminder, the following section from the MCN Governance Guidelines lists the key expectations from MCN Board members:
8-12 hours per month, depending upon activities
Play an active leadership role in delivering on MCN’s overall business in general and on assigned strategic priorities specifically
Attend and prepare for each Board meeting
Be prepared and willing to lead the Board and/or a committee
Join and participate actively in the activities of at least one committee
Follow, participate and contribute to online Board discussions in a timely manner
Make every reasonable effort to bring financial support to the Organization annually from external sources, e.g. identify and introduce sponsor prospects and secure sponsorships
Leverage personal relationships with others (including corporations, professional service firms, vendors, foundations, and individuals) to assist the staff of the Organization with implementing fundraising strategies, including adding names of potential sources of support to the Organization’s mailing list
Actively participate in the development of the annual conference
Attend the annual conference
Actively participate in MCN fundraising efforts
Travel at their own cost (MCN doesn’t cover travel expenses for Board members) to attend two (2) annual board meetings in person: one the week of MCN’s Annual Conference (typically in November), and another, generally in the spring, the week of the Museums and the Web conference wherever that location may be
Directors cannot be compensated and MCN does not pay Directors for travel or other related expenses
WHO WE’RE LOOKING FOR
MCN encourages people from diverse backgrounds, institutions, and experiences to apply. MCN does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression and identity, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of its activities or operations.
In addition, to ensure that a diverse range of institutions are represented on the Board, each individual institution may be represented by only one member of the Board at any given time. Candidates are encouraged to review the current Board members’ list below to check the institution that they are currently affiliated with.
WHAT’S THE NOMINATION AND APPOINTMENT PROCESS?
To be considered by our Nominating Committee, all you have to do is fill out an Application Form. If you believe someone you know would be a qualified candidate, please encourage them to apply. You will need to complete the Application Form by Friday June 30, 2017 at 11:59pm PT. We will let you know if we require additional information about your application.
WHAT’S NEXT?
MCN’s 2017 Nominating Committee will review all applications and propose a slate of candidates to the Board of Directors for discussion, followed by a vote on the individual appointment of each proposed candidate for Director. We anticipate notifying successful candidates by early September 2017. The newly appointed Directors will also be announced on this page and shared with the MCN community on MCN-L.
WHAT IF I HAVE MORE QUESTIONS?
If you have any additional questions, please contact Eric Longo, MCN’s Executive Director at eric@mcn.edu.
We encourage all qualified candidates to apply or hope that you will refer someone you think would be a qualified candidate. Thank you for being a part of MCN.
MCN 2017 Nominating Committee
Carolyn Royston, President Suse Anderson, VP-President Elect Nik Honeysett, Director Matthew Tarr, Director Eric Longo, Executive Director
Some of the best things in #musetech start in a floor meeting at MCN conferences
As a candid and welcoming community, MCN has always championed innovative sessions that are willing to take risks. Last year through the “Other” Category in the Call for Proposals, the program co-chairs created the option for attendees to “propose something else” to present in New Orleans. We actively sought out, encouraged and cultivated potential session ideas that did not fit the traditional 15-minute case study, 30-minute talk, or 60-minute multi-speaker panel formats. The resulting sessions were some of the highlights from #MCN2016 in New Orleans.
We hosted a number of “Unconferences” such as Rob Weisberg’s “‘Views My Own’ Museblog Unconference” and Greg Albers and Annelisa Stephan’s “Making the Workplace You Want.” The Unconference format is a loose and informal discussion usually focusing on a particular topic, sometimes over lunch.
Another kind of alternative session is the Teach-In. Last year in New Orleans, Nikhil Trivedi organized a “Github” offshoot meeting for people interested in the basics workings of Github. Teach-Ins, much like unconferences, are informal discussions focused on knowledge or skill-sharing.
We also hosted sessions with game formats like Trish Oxford’s Power of Vulnerability in Museums session, in which a panel of 5 individuals answered probing questions about museum work culture that were chosen at random for 60 minutes.
We have hosted live podcast session’s like Chad Weinard and Jason Alderman’s The Future of Museum Technology that “took a breakneck look at the problems in dealing with legacy systems, the failings of collection management systems, the infrastructure of process, and the importance of collaboration.”
Many sessions were held under Chatham House Rule, which specifies that participants are free to use the information received, but neither the identity nor the affiliation of the speaker(s), nor that of any other participant, may be revealed on social media channels or other broadcasts. These sessions became a safe place, in which participants were not recorded and could speak freely.
These few examples have in common informality, interactivity, and group exploration of topics that warrant discussion and dialogue. Other ideas might include:
A series of grouped short ignite talks, similar to the popular opening-night event
Round tables with more interaction than a typical multi-speaker panel
Group affinity discussions
Hackathons and prototyping
However, this doesn’t preclude you from adding audience participation and interactivity to more typical presentation formats. Many kinds of longer presentations—such as hackathons and prototyping—with interactivity and learning opportunities can be proposed as a pre-conference workshop. And the 60-minute panel timeframe affords much potential for audience interaction and elements of workshopping. No matter which type of format you propose, think of ways to keep the audience involved!
This year, we are also interested in sessions/activities that will enrich the program and conference experience including but not limited to open yoga sessions, running groups, museum pillow talk, drum circles, and silent discos. Please consider space limitations/requirements, extra equipment and costs when proposing these sessions.
In the end all great “Other” sessions begin with an idea or concept a group wants to explore, no matter how mundane or taboo it may seem. The MCN co-chairs are more than willing to talk through your proposal ideas and help devise the best session format to explore.
#MCN2017’s Call for Proposals opens April 1st!
Don’t hesitate to reach out to program@mcn.edu with your questions, comments, and ideas.
Jennifer Foley and I are excited to announce that Rob Weisberg will be our newest Program Co-Chair for #MCN2017! This year, in addition to developing the conference theme, call for proposals, program structure, and creative events, the Program Committee will also ensure that MCN’s 50th anniversary gets recognized and celebrated in Pittsburgh during MCN2017 itself. Our Co-Chairs will explore how MCN has impacted our community over the past 50 years and how we will carry on this spirit of innovation into the future! Rob comes to the team with a wealth of ideas, energy, and enthusiasm. Please join me in welcoming him to the team! If you haven’t yet been in touch, but are interested in helping shape the future of the annual conference, we’d love to hear from you. All ideas are welcome. Please write to program@mcn.edu
Meet Rob, MCN2017 Program Co-Chair
Rob is Senior Project Manager in the Publications and Editorial Department at The Metropolitan Museum of Art. His experience before The Met was in journalism and publishing production, so he appreciates the many paths people take before ending up in the museum field. Rob worked on hundreds of Met printed exhibition and collection catalogues until the past few years when he helped reboot the museum’s label program, as well as participated in several print-digital hybrid projects. He’s always tried to mediate and translate between different museum and workplace cultures and styles; he considers discrediting false dichotomies in the museum field — visitor-focused or collection-focused, print or digital, slow or fast, creative or organized, agile or deliberative — to be his calling. He blogs about museums and organizational culture at robertjweisberg.com. Rob has been a temporary New Yorker for 25 years and lives in New York City with his real-New-Yorker wife.
Mentoring is an important cornerstone of career advancement as it fosters professional growth and builds peer relationships among both mentors and mentees. Whether you are new to the field or a senior museum professional, and you would like to engage in candid discussions about career aspirations, challenges, and concerns, we encourage you to complete this application before February 5, 2017. Our pilot year program runs from March 1 to December 31, 2017
There is no cost to join in this program, other than a few hours per month spent engaging in mentorship activities. MCN will provide resources, programs, platforms and dedicated Board members to facilitate your mentorship engagement. You must be a current MCN member to apply.
