Director of Community Education & Engagement: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts

Ready to make a difference in the arts community? PAFA seeks a dynamic Director of Community Education and Engagement Programs to lead and innovate in adult programs, museum education, and youth/family events. This key role involves overseeing non-credit academic programs, managing educational activities and events, and collaborating with local cultural organizations to promote PAFA’s mission to celebrate the transformative power of art and art making. If you have a passion for arts education and community engagement, this is your opportunity to shape the future of arts learning!

ABOUT PAFA

Founded in 1805, the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA) is America’s first school and museum of fine arts. Located in the center city of Philadelphia, PAFA is intimate in scale with a strong sense of community. PAFA offers several non-degree and certificate in studio art and art appreciation programs. PAFA’s museum has an outstanding collection of American art, and the museum actively collects and exhibits contemporary art, including work in new media. Additionally, PAFA is home to the Brodsky Center, a print and papermaking center focused on the creation of innovative editions by contemporary artists.

DIVERSITY STATEMENT

Because we were the nation’s first art museum and art school, we believe PAFA has a moral obligation to ensure that every member of our community can study and work in an environment where they feel a sense of belonging. We have the additional obligation of ensuring that our community reflects that rich tapestry of beauty and diversity that surrounds our world.We are committed to modeling diversity and inclusion for the entire arts, cultural and educational sector, and to maintaining an inclusive environment with equitable treatment for all.PAFA is committed to maintaining an inclusive learning environment, and a diverse community of students, faculty and staff.

PAFA is an equal opportunity employer. Women and diverse candidates are strongly encouraged to apply to work in our pluralistic community.

POSITION: Director of Community Education and Engagement

Reporting to the Chief Academic Officer, the Director oversees all community education and engagement programs with a focus on adult programming, museum educational programs, and youth and family programs and events. The Director coordinates and promotes all non-credit academic programs and activities and manages the distribution of adult programs and tour materials.

The Director will support and oversee all programming activities of the Center for Art Education, including the Tour and Docent Programs, Family Arts Academy, and PAFA Summer Art Camp. They will maintain database, mailing lists, and website content for adult programs and tours. Working with the Visitor Services and Finance departments, the Director will generate and compile accurate and timely attendance and participation reports/records. They will collaborate with local cultural partners and community organizations to promote the programs offered at PAFA.

This is a grant-funded, three-year position that is eligible for all PAFA employee benefits.
Youth & Family Programs

• Oversee the Center for Art Education and its staff to successfully implement youth and teen tours and programs, family programs and activities, summer camp, and community outreach with school and community partners.

Museum Education and Adult Programs

• Develop and implement adult programs associated with current exhibitions and activities including, but not limited to, the following:
  • Art-at-Lunch program, PAFA After Dark, Traveling Lecture Series, Symposiums, Panel Discussions, Adult Tours and exhibition-related programs and text reviews/revisions year-round
• Develop and implement educational exhibition components in conjunction with the curatorial dept., including, but not limited to the following:
  • Family gallery guides, family activity areas, resources, etc
  • 2026 Collection Reinstallation and community partnerships

Administrative Duties

• Coordinate the development, implementation, and administration of educational programs, budgetary processes, and community outreach.
• Develop and deliver profitable revenue-producing programs in the Center for Art Education, adult programs, collaborations and special events.
• Identify relevant sources of funding and work with Development to complete applications for grants related to all program areas.
• Develop, implement and monitor department budgets, and grant/contract budgets. Prepare annual budget request and supervises the expenditures of funds.
• Develop and implement quality control systems for the effective delivery of non-credit instruction throughout the School.
• Actively liaise with the Curatorial department, and the Continuing Education department, in creating and implementing programs.
• Develop and manage relationships with educators and community partners in the region.
• Oversee all aspects of the evaluation of professional and support staff involved in conference services, youth programming and summer camps, customized training, occupational skills training and general interest continuing education throughout the School.
• Provide leadership in the development and management of grants from external agencies in cooperation with the Development Team.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Qualified candidates will possess a Master’s degree (M.F.A.) in Art History, Studio Art, Art Education, Design, Museum Studies, or other relevant field, as well as a minimum of 7 years of experience in education, program management, or visual/performing arts administration. Well-developed skills that support creative approaches for working with adults, families, schools, teachers, and general museum audiences alike are imperative. The ability to work and lead effectively in a collegial and participatory manner emphasizing team-building with all segments of the campus community;
• Must possess expertise in administration, supervision, professional development, and community relations.
• Business management experience and skills including writing business plans, entrepreneurship, contract training responsibilities, etc.
• Experience working in an educational environment.
• Candidates will possess strong leadership skills and a proven track record as competent supervisor with sophisticated skills in problem-solving, organizational strategy, and budget creation and management. Direct experience managing staff and/or similarly complex project management skills required.
• Excellent communicator with particular skills in written communication and oral presentation.
• Effectively analyze problems, determine solutions, and take decisive action leading to successful outcomes;
• The ability to anticipate conditions and proactively plan to overcome challenges or capitalize on opportunities;
• Demonstrated experience in employee supervision and performance management; and
• Must have a working knowledge of various computer platforms and programs; including Microsoft Office Suite, Canva, etc.

Working with Minors

Background checks, including Child Abuse Clearances and FBI Clearances, are required for all PAFA staff working with minors, as well as the completion of mandatory virtual staff training sessions through Vector Solutions. Applicants with valid Child Abuse History Clearances will have priority. Additional background checks may be required and will be administered by PAFA.

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