Loading Events

« All Events

Event Series Event Series: IMA 2025 Conference

IMA 2025 Conference

We are partnering for the 2025 Iowa Museum Association Conference

Discover the evolving role of museums, where we explore how these institutions are becoming vital spaces for community well-being, not just learning. As the world faces challenges like political polarization, economic recovery, and mental health concerns, museums are stepping up to provide emotional support and connection. This event will highlight innovative ideas and best practices for creating museums that nurture both individuals and communities. Join us as we redefine the museum experience, making these spaces transformative, inclusive, and essential to thriving in today’s world.

Featuring Keynote Speaker: Dr. John H. Falk, Founder and CEO of the Institute for Learning Innovation and Emeritus Sea Grant Professor of Free-Choice Learning at Oregon State University. He is internationally recognized as a leading expert on free-choice learning; the learning that occurs while visiting museums and other cultural institutions. For more than 50 years, Dr. Falk has been investigating why people go to museums, what they do there, and what they take away from these experiences. Dr. Falk will present a dynamic keynote presentation and hands on workshop, as well as be there to answer all your questions and sign his newest book, Leaning into Value: Becoming a User-Focused Museum.

The deadline for registering for the conference:  April 14, 2025.

Full Conference (includes Sunday, Monday and Tuesday all sessions and lunch both days): IMA Members $195; Students: $100; non-members $265.

One day options available (Monday or Tuesday, either includes lunch).

IMA 2025 Conference At-a-Glance

Sunday, April 27
5:00 -7:00 p.m.
 Opening reception of the Iowa Museum Conference at the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art (410 Third Avenue SE). 

Monday, April 28 
Conference Host:  National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 1400 Inspiration Pl SW

8:30 a.m. Check-in begins, Snacks and coffee available, Location: Rozek Grand Hall

9 a.m. Welcome Location: WFLA/ZCBJ Heritage Hall

9:20 – 10:20 a.m.  Leaning into Value. Dr. John H. Falk. Location: WFLA/ZCBJ Heritage Hall

10:20-10:50 a.m. Q&A with Dr. John H. Falk. Location: WFLA/ZCBJ Heritage Hall

11 – 11:50 a.m. Choice of breakout sessions

12:15 – 1 p.m. Lunch Location: WFLA/ZCBJ Heritage Hall

1- 2 p.m. Leaning into Value: Becoming a User-Focused Museum Book Signing. Bring your copy or purchase one from the IMA and get your book signed by Dr. John H. Falk

1-2:30 p.m. Time with exhibitors.  Explore all that our exhibitors have to offer, make connections, exchange business cards!

2:30-3:20 p.m. A User-Centered Approach to Museum Experience Design Dr. John H. Falk. Location: WFLA/ZCBJ Heritage Hall

3:30 – 5 p.m. Tours & Snacks. Choose your own adventure and visit some of Cedar Rapids Museums.

  • Brucemore (2610 Linden Dr. SE)
  • The History Center (800 2nd Ave SE)
  • Iowa Masonic Library and Museum (813 1st Ave SE)

5 – 9 p.m.  Jester Hospitality Suite, Home 2 Suites by Hilton (4000 Westdale Parkway SW)

6 p.m. MaP Meet-Up at The History Center (800 2nd Ave SE) Registration Required

Tuesday, April 29
Conference Host:  National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, 1400 Inspiration Pl SW

9 – 9:50 a.m.  Every Mind Matters, Creating Workplaces and Communities Where Every Person Thrives, Nora Plambeck, Board Certified Mental Health Coach Location: WFLA/ZCBJ Heritage Hall

10 – 10:50 a.m. Choice of breakout sessions

11 – 11:50 a.m. Poster Session Location: Alliant Energy Classroom

12- 1 p.m. Lunch.  Location: WFLA/ZCBJ Heritage Hall

1:30 – 2:20 p.m. Choice of breakout sessions

Details

Date:
April 27
Time:
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Series: