Conferences and Continuing Education

Sharpen your skills by attending training.

The following list is gathered by the Local History Services team. Please send updates as needed.

Sections
Workshops/Courses
On-Demand Workshops
Continuing Education Resources
Conferences/Meetings
Awards

Workshops/Courses

Year-round Advocacy: Being an Effective Advocate
July 24 @ 1 to 2 pm (CT) – Online: American Alliance of Museums (AAM) – Join Brandy Dillingham, AAM’s Director of Advocacy, and Alexandra Coon, Executive Director of the Massillon Museum, to learn how effective advocacy is an ongoing process. This webinar covers building relationships with lawmakers and their staff, and strategies for becoming a more effective, year-round museum advocate. Cost: Free. Learn more »

Lost, Found, and Everything in Between: Surviving Inventory Surprises
July 24 @ 11 am to 12 pm (CT) – Online: Conservation Center for Art & Historic Artifacts (CCAHA) – Join this webinar to learn how to handle unexpected challenges during collections inventories, including dealing with old loans, undocumented objects, and mold outbreaks. Preservation Specialist Katie Lowe will provide practical strategies for immediate response and prevention to help protect your collections. Cost: $25. Learn more »

Contained Curiosities: Managing of Solids and Liquids in Collections
July 29 @ 12 to 1 pm (CT) – Online: Connecting to Collections Care – Learn how to safely manage, identify, and dispose of containers with solid or liquid contents in museum and library collections. This free webinar, led by Thomas J. Braun from the Minnesota Historical Society, will cover decision-making for preservation, safety procedures, and ways to handle unknown materials. Cost: Free. Learn more »

Sponsors – How to Find Them & Create a Win-Win
July 29 @ 12 pm (CT) - Online: Productive Fundraising - Join fundraising master trainer Chad Barger, ACFRE, ACNP, for a free webinar focused on identifying potential sponsors for your programs and events and building long-term, mutually beneficial sponsorship relationships. Cost: Free. Learn more »

Civil Rights Laws and Nonprofit Missions 
July 29 @ 1 to 2 pm (CT) – Online: Minnesota Council on Foundations & Minnesota Council of Nonprofits – Join Angela Fogt, Partner at Faegre Drinker, for a webinar focused on anti-discrimination standards under state and federal civil rights laws. The session will cover recent agency actions, litigation trends relevant to tax-exempt organizations, and practical legal insights to help nonprofits navigate compliance and advocacy. Cost: Free. Learn more »

Human Resources for Small Museums
July 29 @ 11 am to 12 pm (CT) – Online: Northeast-Midwest Museums Association (NEMO) – Join this free webinar focused on human resource strategies tailored to the unique needs and challenges of small museums. Topics include practical HR management without dedicated HR staff, creating supportive work environments, preventing burnout, and navigating policies on workplace safety, equity, and harassment. Gain insights to improve staff recruitment, retention, and well-being in small nonprofit museum settings. Cost: Free. Learn more »

Reserves – What, Why, When, and How (Much?)
July 30 @ 12 to 1 pm – Online: Propel Nonprofits – Learn why having a cash reserve fund is important for nonprofits, how much you should set aside, and how to manage and communicate about reserves. This session covers when to use reserves, how to set a reserve policy, and practical tools for planning. Cost: Free. Learn more »

Sabbaticals for Nonprofit Leaders: How to Lean Into Authentic Self Care
July 30 @ 1 to 3 pm – Online: Minnesota Council of Nonprofits – Join this workshop to learn how to develop an authentic culture of self-care through sabbaticals that will deliver benefits to the organization and to the leader. Fee: $50 members/$70 nonmembers. Learn more »

Strengthening Ties between Local History Organizations and News Media
July 30 @ 2 to 3:15 pm CT – Online: American Association for State and Local History (AASLH) – Join this live webinar to learn how local history organizations can build relationships with journalists and news outlets to achieve shared goals. Samantha Ragland from the American Press Institute will share tips for connecting with local journalists, ideas for sharing your stories, and insight into the role of the press in community life. The session includes a short presentation followed by a Q&A and discussion. Cost: $25 members, $45 nonmembers. Learn more »

Building a Pesticide Safety Program for Textile Collections & Public Health Risks – Webinar
July 30 @ 12 pm (CT) - Online: Johns Hopkins Education and Research Center for Occupational Safety and Health - Seminar presented by Lauren Holt & Maria Fusco (The George Washington University Museum and The Textile Museum), Colleen McCaffrey (Virginia Department of Labor and Industry), and David Goldsmith (Milken Institute School of Public Health, GWU). The session covers strategies for building pesticide safety programs for textile collections and examines museum-related public health risks. Registration required. Cost: Free. Learn more »

The Johnson Amendment: Safeguarding Nonprofit Nonpartisanship in a Polarized Era 
July 30 @ 1 to 2:15 pm (CT): CalNonprofits & Minnesota Council of Nonprofits - This webinar explores the Johnson Amendment, which since 1954 has prohibited 501(c)(3) nonprofits—including charities, religious, and educational organizations—from endorsing or opposing political candidates. Facing new legislative and legal challenges that threaten nonprofit nonpartisanship, the session will cover the amendment’s origins, its importance in preserving public trust, ongoing repeal efforts, and practical guidance for nonprofit leaders. Speakers: Ben Kershaw (Independent Sector), Ellen P. Aprill (UCLA School of Law), Darryll K. Jones (Florida A&M). Cost: Free. Learn more »

Legislative & Executive Threats to Your Nonprofit 
July 31 @ 1 pm (CT) - Online: National Council of Nonprofits - Learn how recent and proposed executive orders and legislative actions may impact nonprofit operations, funding, and tax status. Topics include updates on executive orders affecting grants, contracts, DEI, and public policy; tax bill overview; and available advocacy resources. Panelists: Sarah Saadian and Tiffany Gourley Carter. The executive branch has issued orders that direct agencies to review and align NGO funding with administration priorities. While some EOs may increase scrutiny or create new administrative burdens for nonprofits—especially those receiving federal funds—current law does not allow the executive branch to unilaterally revoke tax-exempt status or broadly target nonprofits without congressional action. Register and submit questions about legislative or executive changes affecting your nonprofit. Learn more »

Grant Writing Strategies
July 31 @ 1 to 2 pm (CT) – Online: National Trust for Historic Preservation Preservation Leadership Forum – Join National Trust staff from the Preservation Services and Outreach Department and the Development Division for a live webinar sharing tips and techniques to write strong grant applications. While some content focuses on National Trust grants, the strategies offered are broadly applicable to nonprofits nationwide facing changes in governmental funding. Note: No recording will be available; key resources and the slide deck will be provided afterward. Cost: Free. Learn more »

Scenario Planning
August 5 @ 12 to 1 pm (CT) – Online: Propel Nonprofits – This free webinar provides practical techniques and approaches for having critical organizational conversations to support decision making. It also offers analytical tools to help assess risks to income and analyze expense flexibility, enabling nonprofits to prepare for multiple possible futures and enhance organizational resilience. Cost: Free. Learn more »

From Project to Perpetuity: How St. Kate’s Built a Lasting Outdoor Sculpture Corps
August 14 @ 1 to 2 pm (CT) – Online: Connecting to Collections Care – This webinar presents a case study of St. Catherine University’s (St. Kate’s) Outdoor Sculpture Corps, created in 2023/2024 to provide ongoing care and conservation for outdoor sculptures on campus. Learn about the collection and its environment, funding strategies, project outcomes, and advice for institutions considering similar long-term maintenance programs. Presented by Jennifer Adam, Visual Resources Curator at St. Catherine University. Cost: Free. Learn more »

Safety in Numbers: A Team-based, Interdisciplinary, Collaborative Approach to Addressing Hazardous Museum Collections
August 18 @ 12 to 1 pm (CT) – Online: Johns Hopkins Education and Research Center for Occupational Safety and Health – Learn how a collaborative team-based approach can address safety challenges in hazardous museum collections. This webinar explores interdisciplinary strategies for managing risks effectively in museum environments. Organized by The George Washington University Museum and The Textile Museum. Cost: Free. Learn more »

“Level Up” Your Resume
August 19 @ 6 to 7 pm (CT) – Online:  Association of Registrars and Collections Specialists (ARCS) – This session offers practical strategies for effective resume writing, tailored for professionals ranging from first-time job seekers to mid-career individuals aiming for advancement opportunities. Cost: Free. Learn more »

Let's Talk Museum Stores: Unpacking Their Value for Your Museum
August 21 @ 10 to 11 am (CT) – Online: Southeastern Museums Conference (SEMC) – Discover how mission-driven museum stores can deepen visitor engagement, foster community impact, and strengthen your museum’s identity. This interactive webinar includes polls, real-world examples, and collaborative discussions on curated products, local partnerships, and cross-departmental collaboration to empower you to champion your store’s unique role within the museum’s mission. Cost: Free members/$15 general. Learn more »

Introduction to Museum Endowments (Fall 2025)
August 25 – September 21 – Online: American Association for State and Local History (AASLH) – This 4-week online course introduces museum professionals and trustees to the structure, benefits, and challenges of managing endowment funds. Participants will learn foundational terms, best practices for fund management, how endowment spending supports operations and special projects, donor stewardship connections, and explore impact investing and advocacy strategies. The course includes weekly assignments, real-time online office hours, and requires approximately 2-5 hours of study per week. Cost: $199 members/$299 general, with a 10% discount for STEPS participants. Required text: Endowment Essentials for Museums by Rebekah Beaulieu (purchase separately). Learn more »

27th International Preservation Trades Workshop (IPTW 2025)
September 11-13 @ all day – St. Paul, MN: Preservation Trades Network – Join experts in traditional building trades for a three-day event featuring hands-on demonstrations and workshops in carpentry, masonry, plastering, roofing, and more. Attendees can network with professionals, attend sessions, and participate in pre-conference workshops. Discounts and scholarships available for students and apprentices. Cost: Varies. Learn more »

19th Annual Local History & Historic Preservation Conference
October 15 – 17 – Baraboo, WI: Hosted by the Wisconsin Historical Society - This year’s conference theme is “Common Threads: Weaving Stories Across Time & Place.” Join dynamic speakers, engaging breakout sessions and workshops, and educational tours as they explore how to connect past and present through community-centered storytelling. A key event for history practitioners, this conference offers opportunities to learn, network, and inspire. Location: Ho-Chunk Gaming & Conference Center. Cost: Varies. Learn more »

 

Online Demand Courses

American Association for State and Local History - Arcus Leadership Program Courses
Specifically designed for emerging and mid-level professionals and volunteers, these self-paced courses help participants understand the most critical topics in the history field and incorporate that understanding into their work. Start these courses any time.

Museum Collections Documentation and Data Cleaning
Canadian Conservation Institute (CCI) and the Canadian Heritage Information Network (CHIN) - Provides essential museum documentation information for museum staff with all levels of knowledge. It begins with an introductory overview and ends with specific documentation issues. Learners can take the modules in order or choose a module or two that fits their needs. Cost: Free. Learn more »

Preservation Housekeeping for Heritage Sites and Small Museums
Canadian Conservation Institute (CCI) and the Canadian Heritage Information Network (CHIN) - Covers guidelines, best practices and resources for the regular upkeep of historic interiors and exteriors as well as the contents of historic buildings. This one- to two-hour self-paced course has been designed for those who work or volunteer in small museums or heritage sites and who have little to no training in conservation. Learn more »

Explore Minnesota Tourism Conference Breakout Session Recordings
View conference recordings from the February 26-27 Explore Minnesota Tourism Conference Rochester.

Digital Stewardship Training Courses for Tribal Libraries, Archives, Museums, and Small Public Libraries
OCLC's WebJunction, in partnership with Washington State University's Center for Digital Scholarship and Curation, is creating a series of 10 free online courses for staff at tribal archives, libraries, museums (TALMs), and small public libraries on digital stewardship and community-centered curation of cultural collections. Learn more »

Finding New Sources of Funding in Challenging Times:
National Preservation Institute - This 45-minute on-demand course will help you think beyond traditional sources of financial support to fund cultural resource projects. Learn how to evaluate a cultural resource project for its value in serving broader community needs. Review traditional funding types versus alternative sources that can be redirected to meet project goals. Cost: Free. Learn more »

Document Conservation - Northeast Document Conservation Center has many webinar training programs on paper, books, and similar items and topics. Learn more »

Nonprofit Education - Propel Nonprofits and the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits feature local training.

 

Online continuing education

Interpreting African American History and Culture Resource Kit
The American Association for State and Local History's free "Interpreting African American History and Culture Resource Kit" is made up of AASLH conference sessions, webinars, History News, technical leaflets, and books that address topics such as working with descendant communities, celebrating Juneteenth, interpreting slavery for a variety of audiences, and the impact of the Black Lives Matter movement on museum practice. Check it out »

Free Collections Care webinars
Connecting to Collections Online Community offers a series of free, online courses about the preservation of archival and historical collections. Check their website for dates and upcoming programming.

Planning for Changes in the Archives: 12 steps for undertaking collection relocation
Recorded Webinar: Midwest Archives Conference - The presenter walks through the 12 steps so you’ll have a framework to follow for your project. This framework helps focus your plans and ensures you consider possible options. These steps have been honed through experience moving archives and special collections materials. Watch video »

Webinar Recording: Oral History at a Distance: Conducting Remote Interviews
Oral History Association - This timely webinar addresses the dynamics of conducting remote oral history interviews. It begins with an analysis of the pros and cons of conducting distance oral history interviews, then addresses aspects of interviewing in a distance environment, breaking down the interviewer and narrator experience in these exchanges, and offer direction on best approaches for interviewing at a distance. This session will cover best practices for recording archival-quality oral history interviews, then discuss in depth the tools and techniques available to enable the user to follow best practices in a remote setting. Listen »

Webinar Recording: Insurance 101: Practical Considerations for Protecting Institutional Collections and Loans
Connecting to Collections - This webinar recording is appropriate for all levels of experience from beginner to expert as an introduction and review of collections insurance basics and how they are an integral part of collections care. We will examine loss prevention, loss control and how to protect the collection through good housekeeping, landscaping, managing patrons, and during transport of objects. In addition, examples of recent claims and outcomes to illustrate how insurance responds to loss and damage will be presented. Watch the recording »

A Guide to Approaching Audiovisual Digitization
This paper was written through support from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation. The information discussed in the paper is meant to help collection holders prepare their materials and their technology systems for a digitization initiative, as well as give a brief overview of digitization workflows. There is also a discussion of some of the updates made to the BAVC workflow over the last two years. This section may be of interest to those interested in the technical and procedural aspects of digitization workflows. Download paper »

Community Reflection on Black Lives and Archives
Recorded Webinar: Society of American Archivists - Society of American Archivists’ statement on Black Lives and Archives. The vitality of American archives depends on the safety of archives workers and an explicit commitment to social responsibility, justice, and anti-racism in the work that we do and the organizations we work within. As part of this the SAA Council convened a forum of reflection to move toward healing and understanding, of which a recording of this event is now available. Listen »

'Talking About Race' Is a New Online Resource by the National Museum of African American History
Last week, The Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) released a new, online portal discussing race, racism, and racial identity. The new web portal, “Talking About Race,” was launched as a way to help everyone, including families and communities, talk about racism and racial identity and the way these forces shape every aspect of society, from the economy and politics to the broader American culture. Learn more »

Online information for exempt organizations
IRS Exempt Organizations has developed an educational website with an online version of their popular workshop for Small and Mid-Sized 501(c)(3) organizations, plus mini-courses on other topics of interest, including information on the redesigned Form 990.

Reflecting on Museum Labor
A course in the Museum Studies program at University of Illinois at Chicago, centered on public engagement, produced a magazine/newspaper-style publication containing useful information about labor rights, history, and museums/places associated with celebrating labor movements and history. It also has interviews with folks in the field and activities like a custom labor-themed cocktail list. Download PDF »

Cultural Institutions at Times of Social Unrest
Recording of Carla Hayden and Lonnie Bunch discussing the future of their institutions and how they remain accessible and relevant during a period of global pandemic coupled with nationwide protests against injustice. Watch webcast »

Preservation 101
Northeast Document Conservation Center offers a set of free online courses in the basics of caring for objects.

 

Conferences

Stylized photo of New Ulm's commercial Main street2025 Preserve MN - Statewide Preservation Conference
September 10 to 12 - New Ulm: Organized by the Minnesota State Historic Preservation Office, this conference is the annual statewide gathering focused on historic preservation. It brings together professionals, advocates, and community members to discuss topics such as protecting historic sites, preservation planning, heritage tourism, and sustainability. Participants engage in workshops, presentations, and networking opportunities to share knowledge and strategies for preserving Minnesota's cultural heritage. The event serves as a platform for collaboration between individuals and organizations working to protect the state's historic resources. The 2025 conference will be held in New Ulm and will feature sessions aligned with Minnesota’s Statewide Preservation Plan 2022-2032. Learn more »

2025 AASLH Annual Conference: The American Experiment
September 10 through 13 – Cincinnati, OH: American Association for State and Local History – Join history and museum professionals in Cincinnati for the 2025 AASLH Annual Conference focused on “The American Experiment,” coinciding with the nation’s 250th anniversary. Explore themes of democracy, civic engagement, history’s failures and successes, and how history organizations can foster community dialogue. The conference includes sessions, tours, workshops, and networking events. Register before the early bird deadline on July 25 to save. AASLH members receive the lowest registration rates. Hotel blocks available at Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza and Hyatt Regency Cincinnati with special rates. Cost: Varies. Learn more »

Northern Great Plains History Conference, Mankato Sept. 17 – 20, 202560th Northern Great Plains History Conference 
Sept. 17 to 20 - Mankato: Hosted by Minnesota State University, this annual gathering brings together historians, students, and public scholars from across the U.S. and Canada. Enjoy panels, roundtables, and the latest historical research spanning global topics and eras. Connect with experts, explore regional heritage, and celebrate six decades of scholarship. Learn more »
 

Regional and National Conferences

Midwest Archaeological Conference and Plains Anthropological Society Joint Conference-Iowa City, IAMidwest Archaeological Conference and Plains Anthropological Society Joint Conference
October 29 to November 1 - Iowa City, IA: Connect with leading archaeologists and anthropologists, explore the latest research, and engage in dynamic workshops and networking events. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to collaborate, share discoveries, and celebrate the rich heritage of the Midwest and Plains regions. Learn more »


 

Awards

Minnesota History Awards
Since 2009, the Minnesota Alliance of Local History Museums has recognized outstanding history work by local organizations at its Annual Meeting. A formal nomination process is conducted and reviewed by a panel of peers to determine award recipients. There are two award programs: the Minnesota History Awards and the Lifetime Achievement Awards. Learn more »

AASLH Leadership in History Awards
American Association for State and Local History (AASLH) bestows the Leadership in History Awards in recognition of excellence in the field of state and local history. Learn more »

Association of Midwest Museums Awards
Each year, the Association of Midwest Museums honors members throughout the Midwest region for leadership, career achievements, and best practices. Learn more »

  • Distinguished Career Award: honors individuals in mid- to late museum careers whose leadership, vision, and creativity have positively impacted staff and communities, leading to lasting change in their institutions.
  • Promising Leadership Award: recognizes individuals in the early stages of their museum careers (paid staff, interns, board members, and volunteers) who have demonstrated leadership through projects or service to teams/departments.
  • Best Practices Award: recognizes innovative projects or community collaborations by museums and cultural organizations that advance best practices or establish new ones to fulfill their missions.
  • Groundbreakers Award: honors museums or cultural organizations that have challenged conventions, confronted uncomfortable truths about their histories, and engaged in collaborative efforts for change. 

Midwestern History Association Awards

  • Jon Gjerde Prize for best book on Midwestern history
    January 15 - (Deadline): The Jon Gjerde Prize is given annually by the Midwestern History Association to the author(s) of the best book on Midwestern history published during the previous calendar year (2024). Learn more »
  • Dorothy Schwieder Prize for best article on Midwestern history
    January 15 - (Deadline): The Dorothy Schwieder Prize is awarded annually for the best article on Midwestern history published during the previous calendar year (2024). All articles on Midwestern history that were published in peer-reviewed journals are eligible for the prize. Learn more »
  • Alice Smith Prize in Public History
    January 15 - (Deadline): The Alice Smith Prize in Public History honors a public history project completed in the previous calendar year (2024) that contributes to broader public reflection and appreciation of the Midwestern past. Projects by individuals, groups, community organizations, businesses, or other organizations or work done in support of such projects may be nominated. Learn more »