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Benjamin Strauss
Director Of External Affairs at Queens Museum
Professional Background
Benjamin Strauss is a seasoned professional in the arts administration sector, bringing a wealth of experience to the cultural landscape. Currently, he serves as the Director of External Affairs at the renowned Queens Museum, a role that highlights his leadership skills and commitment to fostering community engagement through the arts. In his capacity, Benjamin works tirelessly to build lasting relationships with donors, sponsors, and community partners, ensuring that the museum's vision and programs reach a broad audience. His strategic approach in the arts sector has not only enhanced outreach but also streamlined the development processes to secure funding and resources vital for the museum’s growth.
Career Journey
Before assuming his current role, Benjamin held several key positions that have shaped his career in arts administration. He was the Director of Development at the Queens Museum, where he played a critical role in fundraising initiatives and audience development strategies. His experience at the museum laid the groundwork for his current position, allowing him to deepen his understanding of the institution's mission and the community it serves.
Benjamin’s background includes significant experience with the Public Art Fund, where he served as the Associate Development Manager. His efforts there were focused on pioneering public art projects that brought art to the streets, creating valuable cultural experiences for the public. This was complemented by his role at ArtPlace America, where he was the Operations Manager and Program Associate, overseeing various initiatives designed to integrate arts into community development processes.
Early in his career, he gained foundational skills as a Development Associate at Creative Time, a highly regarded organization known for its commitment to fostering art in public spaces. He first began his professional journey at Creative Time as a Development Intern, where he cultivated essential insights into fundraising, event planning, and strategic communications.
Education and Achievements
Benjamin holds a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Art History from Tulane University, a program that honed his analytical skills and deepened his appreciation for the visual arts. His education continued at the University of New Orleans, where he earned a Master of Arts (MA) in Arts Administration. This advanced degree equipped him with the managerial skills necessary for effective leadership in the arts sector, combining his passion for culture with practical strategies for organizational development.
His educational background has been pivotal in shaping his career, providing him with both the theoretical framework and practical experiences needed to excel in various roles within the arts community. As he embraces new challenges, Benjamin remains committed to promoting the arts as a powerful vehicle for social change and community engagement.
Achievements
Benjamin Strauss has significantly impacted the arts administration field through his various roles, with accomplishments that include:
- Spearheading fundraising initiatives that have successfully garnered support for diverse art projects and cultural programs.
- Enhancing the visibility and reach of arts organizations through strategic partnerships and community engagement activities.
- Contributing to public art initiatives that have transformed urban spaces and enriched the local cultural landscape.
- Overseeing operations that foster collaboration among artists, funders, and community stakeholders, ensuring successful project execution and sustainability.
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