How to Apply
A cover letter and resume are important submissions for the hiring team to get a sense of your experience. In the cover letter, two pages or less, please let us know how this role aligns with your career aspirations and skill set. Submit both a cover letter.
Summary
In Fall 2024, Visiting Artist for Art and Civic Engagement, Philippa Pham Hughes will return to the University of Michigan Museum of Art (UMMA) to host a range of programs that explore how the arts and humanities can strengthen civic engagement and democracy, build a relational and flourishing society, and repair the fraying social fabric of our country (all in the context of the upcoming US Presidential Election). UMMA is seeking a Community Outreach Coordinator to support Hughes and build diverse community participation in these programs.
The Community Outreach Coordinator will assist Hughes by identifying and engaging with ideologically and politically diverse local community members. The COC will also assist in programmatic development that is enticing to individuals who might not feel comfortable in a museum space. Applicants will have the courage and curiosity to interact with people across all political and social identities, and have a commitment to making the world a better place through depolarization and repairing of the social fabric of our country. The COC will take a leading role in meeting with community members in-person and developing relationships that gain their trust and participation in programs.
Hughes?s programs will include an exhibition at UMMA accompanied by a series of interactive programs. The exhibition will create a delightful, joyful, dynamic space to pause and reflect on what it means to flourish as humans and as Americans and how we can create a country in which all Americans flourish.
The position offers a flexible schedule with the individual working up to 20 hours per week. Philippa Hughes is based in Washington, D.C., so the COC will meet with Hughes and UMMA staff via Zoom. The COC will meet in-person with metro Detroit community members and undertake specified tasks when Hughes is not able to be in Ann Arbor. The COC will project manage the community outreach process.
What You'll Do
- Conduct boots-on-the-ground outreach with community members and civic/political affinity groups. This will involve researching community groups, reaching out to group leaders, and meeting with individuals to encourage their participation in UMMA?s programs. The project is a non-partisan effort that seeks to engage community members with a broad range of political beliefs.
- Maintain a spreadsheet of community contacts and coordinate communications with community leaders and groups (largely via email and phone).
- Work in collaboration with Philippa Hughes and UMMA staff to brainstorm, experiment with, and devise programming.
- Meet with Hughes once a week (sometimes on zoom, sometimes in person) and collaborate with UMMA staff as appropriate. Take notes and track on follow up items as needed.
- Conduct research on topics relevant to the theme of the exhibit.
- Be an ambassador for the exhibit and programs.
Who We Are
The University of Michigan Museum of Art (UMMA) puts art and ideas at the center of campus and public life. We create experiences that enrich our understanding of one another, foster joy, and build a more just future. Through exhibitions, programs, research, and community partnerships, we are redefining what a campus museum can be.
When you join UMMA, you can expect to be part of an experienced team that views the Museum as a vital space for exploring contemporary social issues, building community and equity, and generating new ideas about art and culture. We are seeking applicants who are committed to building diversity in our sector, who thrive in settings that ask challenging questions about museum practice, and foster creative, cross-organizational collaboration. In deciding whether to apply for a position at UMMA, you are strongly encouraged to consider whether your values align with our Commitment to Anti-Racist Action and a More Inclusive Museum.
Required Qualifications*
- Interest in the arts and culture as tools for civic engagement. Artistic talent or knowledge is not a requirement; however, creative and flexible thinking is critical.
- Confident and courageous interpersonal skills and experience in navigating a variety of community settings.
- Curiosity about political diversity and causes of polarization; strong desire to leverage interpersonal connection and community gatherings to repair political rifts.
- Interest in relevant topics including depolarization, civic engagement, and strengthening democracy.
- Strong organizational and time management skills, meticulous attention to detail, dependable.
- Excellent communication skills and able to work independently as well as part of a team.
- Knowledge of Google Suite applications.
Application Deadline
Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.
U-M EEO/AA Statement
The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.