Executive Director

The Michigan Humanities Council  is initiating a search for its fifth executive director in September 2012.  The Council is a statewide organization providing leadership, resources, and financial support to engage all Michiganians in the challenges to mind and spirit found in humanities-based public programming.  It was founded in 1974 as an independent, non-profit 501(c) 3 organization based in Lansing. It receives operating and programming support from the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH), the state of Michigan, foundations, businesses, and private donors.  The Council is a member of the Federation of State Humanities Councils.

The Executive Director’s Position

The Executive Director of the Michigan Humanities Council is its strategic and operational leader with responsibility for ensuring that the organization continues to deliver on its mission and maintains its commitment to nurture, promote, and support the pursuit of and appreciation for the humanities throughout the state. In addition, he/she is the primary spokesperson, fundraiser and ambassador for the organization, articulating its value and contribution to Michigan for grantees, educators, donors, and the general public.

The Executive Director is responsible for the planning, program and finances of all Michigan Humanities Council operations, both those executed by staff and volunteers through the Council’s office as well as through its statewide programs and grant-funded organizations. The operations include grant invitation, review, and subsequent awards in support of grantee-managed public humanities and cultural programs; Council-generated programs of statewide importance; collaboration and partnerships that broaden and strengthen the organizational and institutional base for the humanities in Michigan; and activities that provide the field with leadership, providing the humanities with a public voice across the state. The Executive Director oversees the Council’s work and relationships with local libraries, community centers, cultural organizations, historical societies and museums, educational systems, and tribal governments throughout the Michigan. He/she will be guided by the Council’s strategic plan and will be responsible for managing daily operations on a full-time basis.

Click here for full position description and application requirements. 

Procedure for Applying

If the qualifications can be met, a substantive letter of interest directed to the Search Committee accompanied by a current résumé and five references with complete contact information should be sent electronically no later than Friday, November 2, 2012 to Timothy J. Chester, MHC Board Chair at: timothychester@comcast.net.