PROGRAM OVERVIEW:

The CAJM Leadership Institute (CLI) is designed to strengthen leadership and professional development across the entire field of Jewish museums and cultural institutions. At its core is the CAJM Leadership Fellowship, which will bring together a cohort of professionals from January 2027 through August 2029.

The Fellowship is designed for two groups of professionals: mid-career staff with leadership potential who are ready to take the next step, and new executive leaders who are finding their footing and would benefit from additional support and a community of peers. A select group of museums and cultural institutions of different sizes and from across the country will be invited to participate and nominate fellows from their staff.

The Leadership Institute is an investment in our entire field, extending well beyond the fellows who participate. Through conference presentations, shared resources, and Talking Circles open to the broader membership, the learning and connections developed through the Fellowship will reach across the CAJM network.

Additionally, this grant makes possible a new partnership with the Nonprofit Learning Lab, providing all CAJM institutional member sites with access to its professional development resource library. Together, these opportunities reflect the Institute's larger commitment to strengthening leadership, expanding access to learning, and building a more connected and resilient field.

CURRICULUM:

The Fellowship unfolds in three phases: Leading Self, exploring personal strengths and leadership styles; Leading Others, developing skills to manage teams and navigate challenges; and Leading the Organization and Community, building the capacity to shape institutional strategy and community engagement. Fellows will participate in twice monthly virtual learning sessions, gather in person alongside CAJM's annual conferences, and ultimately develop a leadership project at their home institution.

Fellowship Dates: January 2027 – August 2029

  • Virtual Meetings: Twice monthly

  • 2027 In-Person Fellowship Gathering & CAJM Conference: December 13–16, 2027 | New Orleans, LA

  • 2028 In-Person Fellowship Gathering & CAJM Conference: Dates and location TBD | Anticipated Fall 2028

  • 2029 In-Person Fellowship Gathering & CAJM Conference: Dates and location TBD | Anticipated Spring 2029