SEMC Program Committee: a great way to get involved

What is the SEMC Program Committee? 

The SEMC Program Committee is a diverse group of dedicated museum and industry professionals who represent varying career levels, disciplines, and Southern regions. The Committee is responsible for reviewing annual conference session proposals, assisting with the organization of the programmatic offerings, and acting as session shepherds. Each year they are led by SEMC's Program Administrator and a Program Committee Co-Chair, who work closely together in the organization of the committee. 

Volunteer Committee members must attend the mid-year meeting (in person strongly recommended to enhance meeting experience) and the fall conference (in-person only), actively participate in the review and critique of session proposals, and shepherd at least two sessions in Montgomery, Alabama. The 2025 Program Committee will meet on Thursday, March 13, 2025 in Montgomery, AL.

Participation requires a substantial commitment of time, energy, and potential travel costs (including the annual meeting registration cost), however the rewards are immense. Members work alongside a diverse group of professionals, meet industry peers from across the Southeast region, and become an essential part of the SEMC family. 

How can I apply?

Existing Program Committee members must reapply for the following year. This process regularly opens vacancies for new members. Any current SEMC member (individual, institutional, or industry partner) is welcome to review the Program Committee Guidelines and submit an application during the application window. The application period for the 2025 Program Committee has closed. Thanks to everyone who took the time to apply! 

SEMC is pleased to introduce the 2025 SEMC Program Committee!

If you have any questions, contact Program Administrator, Heather Nowak at hnowak@semcdirect.net.

Meet the 2025 Program Committee Co-Chair: Patrick Martin

Patrick Martin brings seven years of diverse museum experience in both nonprofit and government settings. A dedicated member of SEMC for six years, he currently serves as the Museum Technician at the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum in Atlanta. Previously, Patrick was the Education Coordinator at the Civil Rights Memorial Center in Montgomery, and he is thrilled to return to this vibrant city as Program Committee Co-Chair for SEMC2025. With expertise in both museum education and collections management, Patrick brings a wealth of knowledge to the committee. He also serves as co-chair for the SEMC Emerging Museum Professional Affinity Group, further demonstrating his commitment to advancing the field.

The Program Committee Co-Chair works closely with the Program Administrator and assists in providing informational, administrative, and organizational support to the Program Committee at large throughout the year. 

 THank you 2024 SEMC PROGRAM COMMITTEE

SEMC2024 Mid-Year Meeting in Baton Rouge, LA

2024 Program Committee Co-Chair: Christa McCay

Thank you to the 2023 SEMC Program Committee!

SEMC2023 Mid-Year Meeting in Louisville, KY

2023 Program Committee Co-Chair: Timia Thompson

Thank you to the 2022 SEMC Program Committee!

SEMC2022 Hybrid Program Committee meeting Rogers, AR

2022 Program Committee Co-Chair: Beth Hoover-DeBerry

Take a look at images from the SEMC2021 mid-year meeting (March 2021)