University News

WIU Together With Figge & Putnam to Host the IMA Annual Conference

August 10, 2023

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MOLINE, IL - - The Western Illinois University Museum Studies program, together with the Figge Art Museum and the Putnam Museum, will host the 2023 Iowa Museum Association (IMA) Annual Conference, Power of Place: Celebrating our Museum Community. The conference will take place Monday-Tuesday, Oct. 2-3, with a kickoff event at the German American Heritage Center Sunday, Oct. 1.

"I can think of no better way to prepare professionals for successful careers than to provide them opportunities to learn from and network with current leaders in our industry. The Iowa Museum Association is the only professional organization supporting museums and museum professionals in Iowa. Hosting this event on the WIU Quad Cities campus is an honor and privilege," WIU Museum Studies Director Heidi Lung said.

The full conference will include Sunday kickoff events, Monday and Tuesday full sessions with lunch and refreshments included for $195 per person; $100 for students. One-day options are available Monday or Tuesday. Both include lunch and refreshments for $100 per person; $50 for students. Reservations for attending the Sunday night walking tour or exhibit tour are available and must be added to the conference registration.

The conference schedule includes:


  • Sunday, Oct. 1, from 6-8 p.m., kickoff event to the 2023 Iowa Museum Association Annual Conference at the German American Heritage Center and Museum in downtown Davenport, IA. Snacks, appetizers and beverages will be provided to all attendees. Optional activities include a modified version of the "Haunted Walking Tour" around a historic neighborhood at 6:30 p.m. and a guided tour of the permanent exhibition, "The German Immigrant Experience" at 7:15 p.m. Space is limited for both activities and registration for the conference and can be added to your itinerary.

  • Monday, Oct 2, sessions will divide between the Figge Art Museum and the Putnam Museum; attendees will hear from keynote speakers, attend breakout sessions and participate in informal networking opportunities. Lunch will be at the Figge Art Museum.

  • Tuesday, Oct. 3: The WIU Museum Studies program will host conference attendees at the WIU Quad Cities campus with views overlooking the Mississippi River. Attendees will hear from keynote speakers, attend breakout sessions and be given opportunities to meet with industry experts and businesses.


The deadline to register for the conference is Wednesday, Sept. 20. For assistance registering, contact Director@iowamuseums.org or (319) 239-2236.

For more information on WIU's Museum Studies program, visit wiu.edu/museumstudies.

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
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