Holland Museum director selected for new National Leadership Academy
Stempien credited local support for making her attendance possible.
HOLLAND — Holland Museum Executive Director Michelle Stempien has been selected as one of 40 museum leaders nationwide to join the inaugural Museum Leadership Academy, a new executive training program designed to address pressing challenges facing cultural institutions nationwide.
The four-and-a-half-day program, running Oct. 5-9 at the Michigan State University Detroit Center, brings together CEOs and senior executives from diverse museum disciplines and regions. Participants were selected through a competitive application process.
Developed by the American Alliance of Museums in partnership with Michigan State University and supported by E.A. Michelson Philanthropy, the academy aims to help museum leaders navigate modern industry shifts, including financial sustainability, workforce development, changing community expectations, and long-term organizational strategy.
“I’m honored to be part of this inaugural cohort and to learn alongside museum leaders from across the country,” Stempien said. “I look forward to applying those insights to strengthen the Holland Museum and deepen our connection with the community we serve.”
Stempien credited local support for making her attendance possible, expressing gratitude to the Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area for grant funding, as well as the Holland Museum’s board of directors and staff for their encouragement.
The curriculum features seven intensive modules blending academic research with practical insights from national faculty and industry experts. Key topics include financial planning, adaptive leadership, innovation, and strategies for maintaining public relevance during uncertain times.
Local museum officials expect Stempien’s participation to bring fresh national perspectives back to the Holland institution as it seeks to strengthen its operational foundation and expand community outreach.
— Submitted by the Holland Museum. To submit a news tip, email newsroom@ottawanewsnetwork.org.
