about us

The Americans for the Arts Emerging Leaders Network works to identify and cultivate the next generation of arts leaders in America. It is an ideal way for new leaders to share their interests with other arts professionals as they develop their skills and their commitment to the arts. Through professional development and peer networking opportunities on the national and local level, the program strives to enhance the leadership capacity of its members while seizing on their enthusiasm, creativity, and potential.

The Emerging Leaders Network targets the following individuals:

• Professionals with less than 10 years of experience in the field
• Undergraduate or graduate students
• Professionals who are transitioning into local arts administration from another sector

Emerging Leaders Council
The Emerging Leaders Council is an elected working advisory body to Americans for the Arts and assists in developing programs and resources to promote professional development and networking opportunities for emerging arts professionals nationwide.

Local Emerging Leaders Networks
The strength of the national Emerging Leaders Network depends on cultivating strong and sustainable local emerging leader networks in communities and on university campuses across the country. Students and new professionals need to develop their own cohorts of peers for continued growth, support and renewal. 

Americans for the Arts Board Member Steven D. Spiess supports the Emerging Leaders Network
Steven D. Spiess, board member and former chair of the Americans for the Arts Board of Directors, strongly encourages the professional growth of emerging leaders.

Professional Member Benefits
Professional members can sign up for the Emerging Leaders listerv, take advantage of scholarships to professional development events, participate in free webinars, and are eligible for election to the Emerging Leaders Council.