The Assistant Curator is a creative, resourceful, and organized professional with a passion for military history and a commitment to supporting the First Division Museum’s mission. This role assists in developing and managing a collection of archives displayed in both permanent and temporary exhibits. The Assistant Curator collaborates closely with the Curator to ensure the collection effectively tells the history of the 1st Infantry Division through engaging in-person and digital formats for diverse audiences.

Job Overview
The Mott-Warsh Collection (MWC) Curatorial Assistant plays a vital role by providing administrative and research assistance in support of the MWC’s curatorial, exhibition, and educational programming. It is a full-time position reporting to the MWC Director, Curator, and Collection Educator. The position will also work cooperatively with other MWC staff on tasks relating to collections management and programming at MW Gallery, located nearby. This position is ideal for individuals who are passionate about art and culture with a special interest in art of the African diaspora.

We manage many tasks with a small staff. The successful candidate will demonstrate excellent presentation, interpersonal, organizational, and problem-solving skills. The Curatorial Assistant will engage in various tasks that contribute to the effective operation of the collection while gaining valuable experience in the field of curation.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the management and organization of the collection, ensuring proper documentation and care.
• Support the research, planning and execution of exhibitions, including installation and de-installation processes (on-site and off-site).
• Conduct research on artworks, artists, and historical contexts to inform exhibition narratives.
• Assist in the research, writing, editing, proofreading, and production of print and multimedia educational materials, including wall texts, object labels, and website and app content.
• Co-manage updates to MWC website.
• Communicate with internal and external constituents to facilitate object loans, exhibitions, acquisitions, appraisals, and deaccessions.
• Secure rights and reproduction permissions for collection objects; maintain accurate copyright credit lines.
• Create, maintain, and update physical and digital collection files.
• Manage digital image files and image use requests.
• Utilize databases for collection management and tracking inventory.
• Assist MWC Registrar with collection inventory. Perform periodic inspections of (local) off-site art loans.
• Assist with art movement.
• Assist with planning and implementation of public programs related to MWC artists and exhibitions.
• Coordinate the logistical needs of visiting artists, curators, and scholars, including arranging travel, lodging, and itineraries.
• Field and respond to inquiries about the MWC from artists, scholars, and the general public.
• In collaboration with the MWC Collection Registrar and MW Gallery Manager, assist in the organizational maintenance of the MWC Research Library and Archives.
• Maintain calendar for regular staff and special projects meetings.
• Assist in preparation and documentation of meetings (agendas, PowerPoint images, minutes, budgets, etc.).
• Serve as liaison to our Information Services department, communicating MWC’s technological needs.
• Assist in the development and maintenance of MWC’s relationships with local and national arts organizations and community groups.
• Collaborate with team members on various projects, ensuring effective communication and teamwork.
• Other special projects and duties as assigned.
• All duties must be performed in accordance with MWC policies and procedures.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in art history, museum studies, or related field, and a minimum of 1 year of related work experience. MA in art history with an emphasis in modern and contemporary art is preferred.
• Demonstrated knowledge and interest in modern and contemporary art of the African diaspora.
• Excellent research, writing, and verbal communication skills. Demonstrated knowledge and command of English grammar, spelling, punctuation and vocabulary.
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail.
• Knowledge of collection management practices. Experience with PastPerfect software is a plus.
• Ability to establish priorities, coordinate multiple projects simultaneously, and to meet deadlines.
• Public speaking skills to engage diverse audiences effectively.
• Working knowledge of Sketchup or other exhibition design software is a plus.
• Knowledge of standard office practices, such as letter writing, filing, database management, and proficiency in the use of Microsoft Office Suite (MSWord, Excel, Outlook, Teams), and the use of digital collaboration platforms (i.e., Zoom).
• Ability to work collaboratively within a diverse team environment while also being self-motivated.

This position offers an excellent opportunity for professional growth applicable to the public or private museum sector while contributing to meaningful cultural experiences.

Working Conditions and Physical Demands

• This is a 40-hour week, full-time position with a Monday-Friday schedule in a hybrid environment of no fewer than 4 days in the office.
• Some weekend and evening hours are required. The position typically works 4 evenings or less per month. There is an increase of evening work hours during MW Gallery exhibit changeovers, which occur twice a year, over a 3-week period. A flex-schedule is offered on days that require evening work.
• Candidates for this position must be able to lift objects weighing up to 30 lbs.
• Proof of COVID-19 vaccination status is required upon hire.
• Successful background check is required.

The Mott-Warsh Collection offers a competitive salary and benefits package, commensurate with experience.

About the Mott-Warsh Collection

The Mott-Warsh Collection is a privately owned, publicly shared fine art collection that comprises over 1,100 works by artists of the African diaspora and those who reflect on it. Artists represented in the collection include post-World War II masters, such as Romare Bearden, Elizabeth Catlett, Jacob Lawrence, and Betye Saar, as well as contemporary visionaries, such as Wangechi Mutu, Titus Kaphar, Howardena Pindell, Hank Willis Thomas, Carrie Mae Weems, and Kehinde Wiley. Collectively, they cover a wide range of media: drawing, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, and video.

The collection was established in 2001 by Maryanne Mott and her late husband, Herman Warsh, in her community of origin, Flint, Michigan. Their primary intent was to bring art into non-traditional venues where it could be encountered by people as they went about their daily lives. They formed community partnerships with institutions that had an interest in making the collection visible to their memberships, clients, visitors, and participants. Today, rotating exhibits of art from the Mott-Warsh Collection can be found in the public library, churches, health clinics, local colleges and universities, and the MW Gallery. The collection also lends to internationally and nationally touring museum exhibitions.

Mott-Warsh Collection, 111 E. Court St., Suite 2C, Flint, Michigan 48502.

Seeking an Executive Director for the Association for Art Museum Curators (AAMC) & AAMC Foundation. Based in New York City, AAMC is the leading professional development and membership organization dedicated to advancing the curatorial field and well-known for its annual Art Curators Conference. REQUIRED: At least 7 years relevant experience in an art museum or related, MA preferred, demonstrated record of successful board development. http://www.museum-search.com/open-searches/. Apply by 12/27/24 to SearchandRef@museum-search.com. EA/EO. Nominations welcome. Salary: $168,000 – $182,000

The Spurlock Museum seeks a colleague with experience in communications and development work. We value a strong commitment to ethical practices in cultural heritage management, creative thinking, and enthusiasm for collaborative work. The successful candidate will enjoy working in an environment that promotes innovation and experimentation and be dedicated to making the Spurlock Museum a welcoming and inviting space for our community. The Spurlock Museum team is a diverse and talented group of museum professionals that promote transparency, thoughtfully dismantle traditional gate-keeping museum practices, prioritize reparative practices, and center diversity, equity, access, and inclusion in our work.

The Manager of Communications and Development enhances the public image of the Spurlock Museum through compelling storytelling, cultivating support, and building relationships with stakeholders, donors, foundations, and granting agencies. They collaborate with colleagues at the Spurlock Museum, the College of LAS, and University of Illinois Foundation.

Duties and Responsibilities

Content Creation, Writing, and Editing

In consultation with administration and other staff, develop compelling stories and research, create, and edit content for print and online publication. Create content that will engage diverse stakeholders
Research, compose, edit, and publish announcements, press releases, and other materials through a variety of outlets. Submit program and event information to online and community calendars
Lead the development of content, planning, and themes for the Museum’s annual magazine and other publications. Manage and edit content provided by other staff and community members
In consultation with other staff, manage the Museum’s social media presence on a variety of platforms, including content creation, scheduling, and publishing. Manage student workers to assist with social media campaigns
Create project budgets and organize cost estimates for projects including newsletters, brochures, and promotional materials for review by the director and business manager
Work with specialists, including printers and marketing and branding professionals, to develop materials that meet the Museum’s marketing and publishing needs
Supervise student workers and volunteers. Hire, train, assign/review work, conduct performance evaluations, address work issues, approve time, set work schedules, and set goals for student workers and volunteers assisting with the creation of content and publications
As part of a team, develop and maintain organized records and materials for communication activities including articles, text, photographs and images, graphics, and other materials
Manage the production of the Museum’s electronic newsletters
Ensure compliance with University of Illinois communication policies and procedures, and coordinate with the College of LAS and other University communication professionals

Advancement, Media Relations, and Fundraising Events

Manage news and event publicity, inquiries, and requests
Coordinate advancement efforts, including developing strategies and providing necessary information to the annual fund team, updating donor files in the University of Illinois Foundation’s donor database, and coordinating stewardship of donors with the Museum’s Major Gifts Officer
Manage donor correspondence in a timely manner in collaboration with the College’s Advancement Office
Develop and maintain a system for tracking current and former student workers and volunteers for communication purposes
Assist with researching, writing, and proofreading grant proposals
Assist with researching opportunities for corporate and foundation support. Assist with the development of presentations and proposals to these sources
Develop fundraising events, initiatives, and programs in partnership with other Spurlock Museum staff.
Serve as project manager for these efforts. Some evening and weekend work required

Research and Planning

Conduct marketing research, synthesize data, and create reports. Track statistics and analytics for website, social media, and other communication efforts
Develop general and specific marketing plans and oversee their implementation
Research and develop plans and initiatives to attract and retain grassroots support.
Work with the Major Gifts Officer to develop a pipeline to increased levels of giving

Participate in Museum-wide initiatives and other professional activities that contribute to the missions of the Museum and the University of Illinois

Attend staff meetings and actively participate in planning and evaluation of the Museum
Actively participate in creating a work environment that is supportive, respectful, welcoming, and collaborative
Attend Museum events and assist in promoting the Museum on campus and in the community
Actively participate in creating and reviewing Museum policies and procedures
May serve on community or campus committees, working groups, or participate in other advisory groups
Remain active in appropriate professional groups and develop conference or informational presentations when appropriate

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in public relations, advertising, communications, or a related field.
Three years of professional work experience in communications, promotions, public relations, advertising, or event planning.
Demonstrated experience with writing, editing, and/or developing content for social media.

Preferred Qualifications

2 years of successful grant writing experience
2 years of experience in writing and editing
2 years of experience working in donor relations
1 year of supervisory experience
1 year of event planning experience
1 year of experience developing and managing social media content
Experience working in non-profits, higher education, or museums

Successful candidates will have:

Ability to build rapport and establish effective working relationships with co-workers and stakeholders
Demonstrated commitment to relationship building that prioritizes diversity, equity, access, and inclusion
Effective communication skills
Demonstrated effective organizational skills
Excellent project and time management skills
Working knowledge of technology such as computer applications, video, and audio applications for creating online content and programs and website and social media content
Ability to work collaboratively
Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, shift priorities, and meet deadlines
Energy and enthusiasm for expressing the value of diverse cultures, fostering empathy, and improving organizations in the areas of access and representation
Ability to take initiative and work independently

Appointment Information

This is a 100% full-time Civil Service 5007 – Publicity-Promotions Associate position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after the deadline date. The budgeted salary range for this position is $55,000 – $65,000.  Final salary offered will be determined by a thorough assessment of candidate experience and qualifications, internal salary equity, and budget constraints. After an initial probationary period, this position is eligible for a hybrid work schedule of up to 16 hours per week, dependent upon job performance and when Museum’s programs and schedule allow. Sponsorship for Work Authorization is not available for this position.

For more information on Civil Service classifications, please visit the SUCSS web site at https://www.sucss.illinois.gov/pages/classspec/default.aspx.

Application Procedures & Deadline Information

Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on November 19, 2024. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting and upload your resume, cover letter, and names/contact information for three professional references. Please remember to include specific information on how you meet the qualifications of the position in your application materials, including all relevant experiences. In order to be considered as a transfer candidate, you must apply for this position. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. If required by the position, transcripts or other documentation of credentials are to be provided no later than the first day of employment. For further information about this specific position, please contact lascollegehiring@illinois.edu. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.

Provides advanced secretarial and administrative support to Thrivent’s VP, Audience & Experiential Engagement and Chief Curator, Thrivent Art Collection. Partners with manager(s) to ensure successful accomplishment of management responsibilities and objectives. Responsibilities include handling communications, maintaining calendars, and coordinating travel, meetings, and presentations. Supports and participates in projects, administration of various programs, and/or processing functions. Provide support in experience and events planning and coordination for Audience & Experiential Engagement teams.

This role will be located in our Minneapolis, MN corporate office or hybrid.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Organizes and coordinates schedules by maintaining calendars and scheduling meetings, conferences, presentations, travel, itineraries and other meeting arrangements
• Coordinates various travel arrangements and itineraries
• Handles telephone calls and responds to information requests
• Ensures efficient record retrieval by maintaining filing systems and records; performs routine administrative duties such as filing, maintaining office supplies, and processing mail
• Prepares or coordinates the preparation of correspondence, reports, and special projects typically of a complex nature
• Supports and participates in projects, administration of various programs, and processing functions as needed
• Performs duties of a confidential nature
• Maintains and promotes strong business relationships with key stakeholders in support of management objectives.
• Support planning and execution of events and experiences for the Audience & Experiential Engagement function.

Required Job Qualifications

• 3 or more years of administrative/secretarial experience
• Two-year degree from business or vocational school desired
• Project support experience desired
• Advanced business computer skills (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Ability to handle multiple tasks and maintain a high quality of work while experiencing frequent interruptions
• Ability to maintain integrity of sensitive/confidential information
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with coordinating and executing events or special projects.
• Ability to occasionally work evenings and weekends.
• Ability to lift 40lbs.

Other Critical Factors

• Reports to any level of management and may support multiple units/managers.
• Some positions may regularly interact with members of the field organization.

Pay Transparency
Thrivent’s long-term growth depends on attracting, rewarding, and retaining people who are committed to helping others thrive with purpose. We accomplish this by offering a wide variety of market competitive compensation programs to attract, reward, and retain top talent. The applicable salary or hourly wage range for this full-time role is $23.02 – $31.14 per hour, which factors in various geographic regions. The base pay actually offered will be determined by a variety of factors including, but not limited to, location, relevant experience, skills, and knowledge, business needs, market demand, and other factors Thrivent deems important.
Thrivent is unique in our commitment to helping people to be wise with money and live balanced and generous lives. That extends to our benefits.
The following benefits may be offered: various bonuses (including, for example, annual or long-term incentives); medical, dental, and vision insurance; health savings account; flexible spending account; 401k; pension; life and accidental death and dismemberment insurance; disability insurance; supplemental protection insurance; 20 days of Paid Time Off each year; Sick and Safe Time; 10 paid company holidays; Volunteer Time Off; paid parental leave; EAP; well-being benefits, and other employee benefits. Eligibility for receipt of these benefits is subject to the applicable plan/policy documents. Thrivent’s plans/policies are subject to change at any time at Thrivent’s discretion.

Principal Function: The Director of Interpretation at Conner Prairie will be responsible for leading a large team of dedicated museum interpretation staff and facilitating a comprehensive interpretive plan aligned with the Institution’s mission, values and strategic planning. This leadership position requires exceptional communication skills (written and oral) combined with extensive knowledge of museum operations, visitor studies, a variety of learning styles and teaching pedagogy in museum environments.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: Duties include, but are not limited to:

Provides leadership and direction for the Interpretation department.
Ensures alignment of Conner Prairie’s interpretive plan with the industry’s best practices as well as the institution’s mission, vision, values and strategic plan.
Collaborates with directors and managers across the institution to help reimagine and evaluate the content and research of the institution.
Oversees the administration of projects with respect to budgeting, community engagement, marketing, programmatic development, reporting, staffing and tracking.
Builds professional partnerships that strengthen and expand Conner Prairie’s interpretive repertoire.
Participates in and serves as an advisor to community and national organizations as it relates to museum historical interpretation.
Collaborates with various teams (especially Education, Programs and Trades) to develop classes, lectures and workshops.
Develops and implements a regular schedule for evaluation of Interpretation staff to assess alignment with methodology, mission, and DEAI initiatives.
Supervisory Responsibilities: Project supervision and supervision of Interpretation Manager, Domestic Trades Manager and Senior Interpreters. May include additional supervision dependent on departmental growth and future structuring.

Education and/or Experience: A Bachelor’s Degree in History, Public History, Museum Studies, or related field is required. A Master’s Degree in History, Public History or related field is desired. A minimum of five (5) years of progressive leadership experience, preferably in a museum or similar non-profit environment is required.

Qualifications: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty according to the requirements of the organization. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations

may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential duties and responsibilities.

Competencies: To perform this job successfully, all employees at Conner Prairie should demonstrate the following competencies:

Customer Service – Responds to requests for service and assistance; Manages difficult or emotional customer situations focusing on listening without interrupting and keeping one’s emotions under control; Solicits customer feedback to improve service; Maintains confidentiality and meets commitments; Remains open to others’ ideas and tries new things.
Teamwork – Balances team and individual responsibilities; Exhibits objectivity and openness to others’ views; Gives and welcomes feedback; Contributes to building a positive team spirit; Puts success of team above own interests; Able to build morale and group commitments to goals and objectives; Supports everyone’s efforts to succeed.
Diversity – Demonstrates knowledge of EEO policy; Shows respect and sensitivity for cultural differences; Educates others on the value of diversity; Promotes a harassment-free environment; Builds a diverse workforce.
Ethics – Treats people with respect; Keeps commitments; Inspires the trust of others; Works with integrity and ethically; Upholds organizational values.
Organizational Support – Follows policies and procedures; Completes administrative tasks correctly and on time; Supports organization’s goals and values; Benefits organization through outside activities; Supports affirmative action and respects diversity.
Professionalism – Approaches others in a tactful manner; Reacts well under pressure; Treats others with respect and consideration regardless of their status or position; Accepts responsibility for own actions; Follows through on commitments.
Quality/Quantity – Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness; Looks for ways to promote and improve quality; Applies feedback to improve performance; Monitors own work to ensure quality; Meets productivity standards; Completes work in a timely manner; Strives to increase productivity and works quickly.
Safety/Security – Observes safety and security procedures; Determines appropriate action beyond guidelines; Reports potentially unsafe conditions; Uses equipment and materials properly.
Attendance/Punctuality/Dependability – Is consistently at work and on time; Ensures work responsibilities are covered when absent; Arrives at meetings and events on time; Follows instructions; Responds to management’s direction; Takes responsibility for own actions; Keeps commitments; Commits to long hours of work when necessary to reach goals; Completes tasks on time or notifies appropriate person with an alternative plan.
Job-related Competencies – To perform this job successfully, employees in this job should demonstrate the following competencies:

Analytical – Synthesizes complex or diverse information; Collects and researches data; Uses intuition and experience to complement data; Designs workflows and procedures.
Project Management – Develops project plans; Coordinates projects; Communicates changes and progress; Completes projects on time and budget; Manages project team activities.
Oral Communication – Speaks clearly and persuasively in positive or negative situations; Listens and gets clarification; Responds well to questions; Demonstrates group presentation skills; Participates in meetings.
Written Communication – Writes clearly and informatively; Edits work for spelling and grammar; Varies writing style to meet needs; Presents numerical data effectively; Able to read and interpret written information.
Other Skills and Abilities: The following skills and abilities are either required or desired.

Computer software skills, including Microsoft 365 Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint), and collections databases.
A strong historical and civic literacy.
An ability to write and implement an interpretive plan.
A working knowledge of various museum interpretive tools and trends.
An ability to coach and direct a large team of full and part-time staff.
A working knowledge of collections and material culture appropriate for our organization’s time periods (especially mid 19th century) is required.
An ability to adjust interpretive techniques for various audiences.
The knowledge relating to the logistics and handling of collection of items is required.
The ability to prepare and maintain financial budgets is required.
Written and spoken fluency in English is required; a passing knowledge of Spanish, ASL or other languages is desired.
A high emotional intelligence and an adaptability to a fast-paced, fluid environment is vital.
Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential duties and responsibilities.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear.  The employee frequently will stand; walk; and lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.  The employee occasionally will climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; and taste or smell.

Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision (clear vision at 20 inches or less), distance vision (clear vision at 20 feet or more), color vision (ability to identify and distinguish colors), peripheral vision (ability to observe an area that can be seen up and down or to the left and right while eyes are fixed on a given point), depth perception (three-dimensional vision, ability to judge distances and spatial relationships), and the ability to adjust focus (ability to adjust the eye to bring an object into sharp focus).

Work Environment: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential duties and responsibilities.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee occasionally is exposed to working near moving mechanical parts and the risk of electrical shock when working with office equipment and outdoor weather conditions.  The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet to moderate.

While the offices of Conner Prairie are open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, this position may require work beyond these hours and on the weekends. It also may require occasional domestic travel.  Thus, a valid driver’s license is desired.