Arts Administrators Fellowship

Overview

Seeking to amplify new and distinctive voices in arts and culture, this 10-month biennial program for emerging and mid-career leaders across the arts and cultural sector in Palm Beach County will build a leadership pipeline of arts administrators and provide career enhancement opportunities. Seven fellows will be selected to successfully complete the program in 2027 and be equipped with the tools to forge a pathway towards future leadership in the sector.

Key Dates

• June 29, 2026 - Application window opens
• August 7, 2026 - Deadline for applications
• Week of September 28, 2026 - Fellows announced
• October 2026 - Introductory dinner with the fellows

Eligibility

• Must live in Palm Beach County at the time of application
• Must be available for all scheduled in-person and virtual events
• Must be an emerging or mid-career arts professional with between 1 and 7 years of experience in the field of arts and culture

Program Highlights

• Dynamic curriculum built around "Run It Like a Business" by Aubrey Bergauer, with professional development support and networking
• Tours of cultural organizations across the county with behind-the-scenes insights from executive directors/CEOs
• Facilitated workshops and individualized career counseling from a licensed professional
• Group mentoring sessions with established arts leaders in Palm Beach County or nationally
• Sponsored participation in the annual Americans for the Arts conference (travel and lodging included)
• Networking and team-building sessions with current and previous fellows
• One-on-one mentoring with the Cultural Council's CEO and board members
• Alumni networking opportunities after program concludes

Selection Criteria

Competitive applications will include evidence of commitment to personal and professional skill development, demonstrated interest in the sustainability of the arts and cultural sector in Palm Beach County, examples of creative ideas or innovation, indication of strong self-awareness and unique vision, and a diverse range of cultural experiences.

How to Apply

Applicants will complete an online application form and answer narrative questions. All applications must be submitted via the online portal. Late submissions will not be accepted.

Information Sessions

• July 1, 2026, 9:30–10:30 a.m. — Cultural Council for Palm Beach County, 601 Lake Ave., Lake Worth Beach
• July 9, 2026, 6–7 p.m. — Rohi's Readery, 630 7th St, West Palm Beach
• July 15, 2026, 2–3 p.m. — Boynton Beach Arts & Cultural Center, 125 E Ocean Ave, Boynton Beach
• July 21, 2026, 10–11 a.m. — Zoom Virtual Session

Program Schedule

• November 13, 2026 - Community Impact: On Localizing Growth (Half Day - Morning)
• December 11, 2026 - Leadership Training Pt. 1 (Full Day)
• January 8, 2027 - Spady Museum Tour (Half Day – Morning)
• February 12, 2027 - Marketing Diverse Programming (Half Day - Morning)
• March 12, 2027 - Donor Relations (Half Day)
• April 9, 2027 - Grants and Sustainable Funding Models (Half Day - Morning)
• May 14, 2027 - Leadership Training Pt. 2 (Full Day)
• June 2027 - Career Counseling Pt. 1 (Virtual)
• July 16, 2027 - Nonprofit Operations & Guatemala-Maya Center Cultural Tour (Half Day - Morning)
• August 2027 - Career Counseling Pt. 2 (Virtual)
• June 2027 - Americans For the Arts Conference