Innovating Arts Leadership Education: Collaborative Solutions for Measuring Public Value with Data-Driven ToolsPresenter: Angela P. MelecaAs the arts and cultural sector evolve, arts leadership education must adapt to equip future leaders with the skills to navigate complex challenges. One of the key issues facing educators is balancing theoretical knowledge with practical, real-world application—particularly the integration of data-driven tools to measure and demonstrate the public value of arts programs. This challenge is becoming increasingly critical, as arts organizations need leaders who can communicate their societal impact beyond traditional metrics like attendance or budget.
This collaborative issue presentation will explore how data analytics can transform arts management curricula, preparing students for leadership roles that require transparency, accountability, and measurable outcomes. Drawing on real-world case studies, the panel will introduce a data-driven pilot project, originally successful in the social services sector and now adapted for arts organizations. Presenters will discuss how these tools have been implemented in educational settings to strengthen students’ leadership skills and how practitioners have applied them to enhance community engagement, secure funding, and advocate for their organizations.
The session will include a guided discussion on the following points:
- The role of data in transforming arts leadership education and professional practice.
- Practical challenges and opportunities of integrating data tools into the curriculum.
- Real-world examples of data application in arts organizations to enhance public trust and secure funding.
- Balancing theory and practice to equip students for real-world leadership in the arts.
Attendees will leave with actionable strategies for integrating data-driven methods into their own curricula and professional contexts.
Cross-Sector Partnerships in Arts Administration: An ExplorationPresenter: Jay Pension
Over the past decade, both scholars and practitioners have increasingly explored cross-sector partnerships between arts-focused and non-arts-focused organizations. This presentation and facilitated discussion will explore how these partnerships shape and influence arts practices in the United States, highlighting both the benefits and challenges they present.
Notable cross-sector partnerships in the arts have included non-arts-focused sectors including healthcare, education, technology, manufacturing, retail, government, environmental organizations, finance, and community-based nonprofits. Such multidisciplinary collaborations between diverse fields often lead to innovative projects that might not emerge when organizations operate within silos. Conversely, the bureaucratic structures of larger organizations can sometimes limit the agility of partnered arts organizations, presenting a key challenge to their effectiveness.
This session will be part presentation and part facilitated discussion through which attendees explore key themes and share insights. This presentation and discussion will explore these questions: How do cross-sector collaborations improve community health outcomes, inspire innovative business and social initiatives, and contribute to a richer, more dynamic cultural landscape? How do cross-sector collaborations hinder arts practices the United States?
