M.LiT: Museum Leaders in Training

Student Guiding others in an exhibition

Learn. Explore. Advise. Discover.

M.LiT is a free, 12-week career-development and leadership-training program for teens. Participants explore museum careers and serve as advisors in the development of other teen programs at VMFA. With the help of guest lecturers and VMFA staff, teens learn team building, research, and other skills that prepare them for employment. They also network with peers, mentors, and museum professionals.

Participating students (grades 8 — 12) will gain a strong appreciation of the visual arts, in relation to history and culture Workshops are held on Thursday evenings beginning in early October and run through the end of January. Students have the opportunity to meet museum professionals, discover how to recognize the merits of others’ works, build healthy and lasting relationships with peers and instructors, and develop an understanding of the function of art and museums in the community and society. This leadership program is taught through hands-on workshops, insightful lectures, and engaging discussions.

Qualifications & Requirements for Applying:

Applicants must be in grades 8 – 12 and are accepted based on writing abilities, qualifying experience, completeness of application, superior teacher recommendations, and/or regional demographics. This is a demanding and competitive program. Please ensure that you are submitting the supplemental material that best represents you and that you are able to commit to the program schedule and expectations fully.

To successfully complete this program, M.LiT students must fulfill the following:

  • 28 hours of training or workshops
  • 5 – 10 hours of homework and readings
  • 22 hours of work on a special VMFA project
  • 20 hours of summer teacher assistantships for VMFA’s Summer Art Adventures camps or Early Childhood Education Camps

Learn More About Applying





M.LiT is generously supported by the Hillsdale Fund.

Upcoming Events

Teen Night | Through Your Lens

Fri, Jan 24, 2025
6:30–8 pm
Free
Marble Hall

This in-person event, for teens ages 13 and up, is the perfect opportunity to meet other young art enthusiasts, explore the theme of storytelling, and participate in hands-on art activities inspired by the special exhibitions A Long Arc and American, Born Hungary. We will also celebrate the opening of the Museum Leaders in Training (M.LiT) exhibition in the Smurfit WestRock Art Education Center. There will be a Polaroid photobooth, raffle prizes, and more. Don't miss out on this unique chance to experience the museum in a whole new way!
 
This event is designed and organized by teens in VMFA's Museum Leaders in Training program. M.LiT is generously supported by the Hillsdale Fund.
 

 

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