• Sarah Dickinson, Sloan Museum of Discovery

• Chad Hitchcock, Sloan Museum of Discovery

Sarah Dickinson and Chad Hitchcock from the Sloan Museum of Discovery are here to present on dealing with the unknown, unmanaged, and unfathomable quantity of objects within an unmanaged collection. This presentation will give attendees a look into an ongoing inventory project at the Sloan Museum of Discovery as well as tips and guides on how to get started. Topics will include spatial planning, needed supplies, prioritizing metadata, deaccessions, work pacing, and "lessons learned" on the job.

• Stephanie Fortino, Mackinac State Historic Parks

As museums and nonprofits figure out how to do more with less, everyone needs to have some basic knowledge about marketing and communication. From getting the word out in a press release to taking better photos for your website and social media, opportunities for improving your content abound. During this session, former newspaper journalist and current museum administration professional Stephanie Fortino will share ideas, tips, and strategies for identifying your hook and getting your story out there.  

• Dr. Matt Travis, Midland Center for the Arts

• Jennifer Kanyo, Midland Center for the Arts

• Stephen Petri, R&P Design International 

Midland Center for the Arts has reimagined its museum experience for generations to come to awaken creativity at the intersection of art and science through the past, present, and future. This session explores how Alden B. Dow’s original vision guides a transformation of the visitor experience, not just the building. Through a comprehensive renovation, Midland Center has gone through a visionary process to redesign exhibits, enhance accessibility, and create immersive, hands-on environments for contemporary audiences. Attendees will gain insights into aligning mission, design, and audience engagement to shape a more relevant, inclusive, and future-focused museum experience.