With our move to the University of Maryland, the DeVos Institute has revamped our highly competitive fellowship program for arts managers.
Since 2001, the Institute has brought together arts managers from across the United States and around the world to study fundraising, marketing, financial management and planning. Over the past 15 years, my colleagues and I have had the opportunity to meet and work with many talented, dedicated arts managers who are shaping the cultural sector in their communities. For example, one alumnus ran an alternative performing arts space in Buenos Aires, one founded a theater production company in Pakistan, and another directed fundraising and marketing for a leading British period-instrument ensemble. One fellow came from the iconic Apollo Theater in New York, while another managed fundraising at an arts education center in Vancouver. These are just a handful of examples of the incredible breadth of experiences our fellows bring to the program.
Now, the DeVos Institute will combine our domestic and international programs. Where we previously offered separate programs for American and international arts managers, the Institute will offer one unified three-year fellowship beginning in 2016.
One of the most invigorating elements of the fellowship program is how it brings together leaders from not only different genres, but also different backgrounds. Fellows learn from one another and share ideas on what does -- and doesn't -- work at their home organizations, fostering a highly productive and worthwhile exchange of ideas. This new approach to the program will enhance the opportunity for American participants to learn from their international colleagues and vice versa.
As always, this full-scholarship fellowship program includes intensive training in core topics like nonprofit management, fundraising, and marketing as well as the opportunity to learn from executives of leading American cultural institutions. Fellows are in residence in Washington, D.C., for one month each summer for three years. Between these residencies, fellows return to their home organizations, where they will have access to Institute support as they engage key staff and board members in strategic planning. Visit the DeVos Institute's website for more information.
Given the magnitude of challenges facing the arts sector, the need for effective arts managers is growing every year. Similarly, the need for cross-cultural collaboration is as great as ever. We hope this program supports these talented fellows in both objectives.