The Joslyn Art Museum Director of Learning & Engagement

Roles and Responsibilities

• Strategic Vision
• Develop and lead the strategic vision for The Joslyn’s Learning & Engagement Department, aligning programs with the institution’s mission, exhibitions, collections, and community priorities.
• Inspire innovative, inclusive, and accessible learning experiences for audiences of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds.
• Champion community-centered program development that reflects local needs, fosters belonging, and expands access to the arts.
• Integrate exhibitions, collections, buildings, and gardens into cohesive educational and interpretive experiences.
• Serve as a key thought partner across departments to embed learning and engagement into institutional planning and initiatives.
• Embrace other strategic vision responsibilities as needed.
• Team Leadership and Operations
• Lead, mentor, and support the Learning & Engagement team in developing and delivering high-quality programs and visitor experiences.
• Oversee the planning and execution of a wide range of programs, including public tours, school tours, lectures, performances, studio classes, and community events.
• Guide the development of multimedia and interpretive content that enhances visitor engagement and educational impact.
• Collaborate with curatorial, exhibitions, and other departments to design and implement exhibition-related programming, including lectures, performances, and hands-on activities.
• Build and sustain partnerships with community organizations, schools, artists, and peer institutions to expand reach and deepen impact.
• Develop and implement strategies to increase access and participation, particularly for underserved and target audiences.
• Ensure the successful coordination of K–12 and lifelong learning initiatives, aligning programs with curriculum standards and community interests.
• Incorporate community input into program and exhibition development, including engagement with advisory committees and key stakeholders.
• Oversee evaluation and assessment of programs, using data and feedback to inform continuous improvement and demonstrate impact.
• Manage departmental budgets, resources, and staffing to ensure effective and sustainable operations.
• Represent The Joslyn in public, professional, and community settings, advocating for learning and engagement initiatives.
• Embrace other team leadership and operations responsibilities as needed.

Traits and Characteristics

• A collaborative, people-centered leader who is motivated by service and committed to creating meaningful, inclusive learning experiences for diverse audiences.
• Resourceful and results-oriented, maximizing the effective use of time, talent, and institutional resources while maintaining a strong focus on impact and accountability.
• Guided by a balanced and thoughtful approach, valuing multiple perspectives and fostering a harmonious environment that supports creativity, access, and engagement.
• Highly interactive and relationship-driven, building trust across staff, educators, community partners, and learners, while remaining adaptable and versatile in a dynamic setting that requires frequent shifts in priorities.
• Demonstrating consistency, sound judgment, and the ability to translate vision into responsive, high-quality programs that advance The Joslyn’s mission.

Qualifications

• A master’s degree in education, museum studies, or a related field is desired, along with five to seven years of progressively responsible experience in museum education, including demonstrated leadership experience.
• A proven ability to develop and implement innovative educational programs, contribute to institutional strategy and senior leadership initiatives, and effectively manage and build diverse teams of paid staff and volunteers is essential.
• The Director will possess strong interpersonal, team-building, organizational, planning, and financial management skills, as well as a solid understanding of learning and curriculum development principles across a range of ages and program types.
• Flexibility to work varied hours, including evenings and weekends, is required, along with the ability to pass an extensive background check and adhere to organizational policies and procedures.