ABQ Times

The University of New Mexico Art Museum (UNMAM) will host the Association of Academic Museums and Galleries (AAMG) Annual Conference in 2025. This event marks the first time the conference will be held at UNM and in New Mexico.

Academic museums and galleries play a crucial role in university operations, pedagogy, and culture. AAMG aims to ensure best practices for these institutions through educational and advocacy initiatives.

The 2025 conference theme is "Belonging: Storytelling Across Campus and Community," continuing discussions from last year's virtual event. The theme explores how belonging influences collections, exhibitions, programs, communications, fundraising, and organizational culture.

“This collaboration between AAMG and UNM promises an enriching experience for all attendees," said Devin E. Geraci, associate director of operations at UNMAM. He emphasized that the conference will highlight UNM's diverse museum landscape.

"UNMAM is proud to be an active partner of AAMG," stated Arif Khan, director of UNMAM. Khan has served in various roles within AAMG since 2021 and currently co-chairs the conference committee for 2024-2025.

In preparation for this event, several UNMAM staff participated in the 2024 virtual conference as proposal reviewers and presenters. They also sponsored a keynote conversation featuring artist Jaune Quick-To-See-Smith and Marcella Ernest from UNM.

“I am excited for our university to host the AAMG conference,” expressed Khan. “I look forward to showcasing UNM’s world-class museums.”

Academic museums focus on fostering a sense of belonging among students by engaging with local communities and other institutions within AAMG.

“It is an honor to welcome AAMG to The University of New Mexico,” said Geraci. “Each year, the AAMG conference inspires resource-sharing and network building.”

The event will gather museum professionals nationwide to discuss current trends in the field while promoting belonging through collections and programs.

“AAMG is thrilled to partner with The University of New Mexico museums,” wrote Kristina L. Durocher, president of AAMG. She highlighted the unique cultural environment of Albuquerque as a source of inspiration for attendees.

A call for proposals for this significant event remains open until November 27th, ahead of its scheduled dates from June 24th to June 27th, 2025.