The following are the DRAFT titles and descriptions of the many concurrent sessions during the 2008 conference. You will receive a more final description of the sessions upon your arrival in Madison
Teaching Research
Moderator: Ximena Varela, Drexel University
Participants: Sherri Helwig, University of Toronto Scarborough
We endeavor to show that the Borrower's Field of arts management draws from numerous disciplines toward crafting its own distinct identity. Further, that research and practice need not be divided, but together advance the field in important ways that serve new graduates well by advancing the reputation, respect, credential and credibility of the Arts Administration degree and field.
Managing Up, Working with New Administrators, Deans, Provosts and Others
Moderator: Cecelia Fitzgibbon, Drexel University
Participants: Robert Wildman, North Carolina School of the Arts; Jean Brody, Goucher College
This session will address the questions, "What do we need to do as Program directors to ensure that our programs gain the attention and support they need from the institution so that we can remain relevant and integral? This is especially critical for those who do not understand the field of arts administration. The panelists will discuss their own experiences with a new leader, include a review of the issues and opportunities, and share what they believe to be the strategies to address the situation; what has been accomplished to date, what is yet to be addressed?
Global Perspectives: Arts Administration in China and the United States
Moderator: Joan Jeffri, Columbia University Teachers College
Participants: Yu Ding, Director, Program in Arts Administration, Central Academy of Fine Arts, Beijing, China
Discussion centering on the new book, RESPECT FOR ART: visual arts administration and management in China and the US, co-written by the panel participants.The book's focus is on museums, nonprofit organizations,the art market (including auction houses, galleries and expos) and public art. It is the first cross-cultural comparison of this kind for these 2 countries and is issue-based and includes recommendations for sustainability and the future.
Arts in the Small Community
Moderator: Ellen Rosewall, University of Wisconsin-Green Bay
Participants: Maryo Gard Ewell, Goucher College; Gerry McKenna, University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point; Doug Borwick, Salem College
Wisconsin's own Robert Gard was an early advocate for arts and culture in rural America. His classic 1968 text on the subject, "Arts in the Small Community" has just been revised for a new generation of leaders. How can we teach and learn the unique aspects of cultural management and leadership in rural and small communities?
Working Session: Vetting the Graduate Standards
Moderator: Cecelia Fitzgibbon, Drexel University
Jonathan Katz, National Assembly of State Arts Agencies
Rebecca Borden, Americans for the Arts
Join a discussion with industry experts about how the AAAE Graduate Programs connect with the needs and trends of arts leaders in the working world. We'll explore how we can ensure this document is continually revised, and productively used in our work.
Student Assessment: Measuring what Matters
Moderator: Sherri Helwig, University of Toronto Scarborough
Participants: Ellen Rosewall, University of Wisconsin-Green Bay
A follow-up on our Chicago session on teaching strategies, this interactive discussion will explore the unique challenges of student assessment and evaluation, in a field that often lacks measurable outcome goals.
Full Circle or Broken Circle
Moderator: Shelley Crawford, University of Toronto Scarborough
Participants: Bill Poole, University of Waterloo; Maria Torres, University of Oregon
AAAE Alumni and employers in our sector speak with current arts administration students and AAAE program leaders about the skills and knowledge required to succeed in the sector. Are our programs preparing graduates for current and future opportunities in the cultural sector - do students measure up to the market's demands? Are current managers and senior hiring personnel aware of the potential of the new graduates and seasoned alumni - and are they hiring AAAE alumni as their leaders? Is there a fit or a disconnect? Find out at this provocative session.
Global Perspectives: Envisioning a More International AAAE
Moderator: Bill Poole, University of Waterloo
Participants: Ad Huijsmans, Utrecht School of the Arts
AAAE members already span the globe, and our loose ties to sister organizations also add to our international spirit. But is there a future for the association in a more dynamic and proactive international posture? Come join your colleagues to explore the idea and its impact on our work.
Learning as You Teach: Professional Development Opportunities in Arts Administration
Moderator: Richard Maloney, Boston University
Participants: Eileen Strempel, Syracuse University; Rebecca Borden, Americans for the Arts; Joan Jeffi, Columbia University Teachers College
Just like our students and alumni, Arts Administration Educators need additional (virtually continuous) training throughout their careers. Come discuss and share 'continuing education' options for our field, such as the 'professional doctorate,' executive seminars, and other avenues for advancing your craft.