Speaking for AAM

Maybe instead of (or in addition to) getting yourself out of this discussion, you should get those at AAM who speak for AAM into this discussion.

John Arnold Public Information Officer President, New Mexico Association of Museums New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science 1801 Mountain Road NW Albuquerque, New Mexico 87104 505.841.2826

'Sometimes the light's all shining on me. Other times I can barely see. Lately it occurs to me What a long, strange trip it's been.'

Who DOES speak for AAM anyway?

Good question.

We have an elected board that makes policy decisions. Occasionally such decisions are subjected to a vote of the entire membership. An annual report published in Museum News informs the membership of board actions and of course includes a full financial disclosure. Three councils

I am not alone in feeling the AAM staff is doing very well on behalf of America's museums. After 17 years of membership, though, a period during which our entire professional universe has changed, I wonder whether the AAM board wouldn't welcome some solid proposals from the 'hired help' to take on some new and member-useful home office projects?

The AAM board consists of professionals who undoubtedly have demanding 'day jobs.' Our own museum boards are filled with similarly busy people. They tend to expect the professionals on staff to make the recommendations, not the other way around.

I am glad Andy Finch is a staff conduit for Museum-L meanderings or, at least, that some of these thoughts are being shared within the home office.