Building Bridges: From Campus Asset to Community Resource [MaP Strategy Circle]

University museums occupy a unique and challenging position — physically on campus while serving both academic and public communities. The challenge: How do you build community awareness and engagement when your own location may signal exclusivity? In this Strategy Circle, we'll explore how academic museums can overcome their campus boundaries — both real and perceived — to become recognized cultural anchors for their broader communities. Case Focus: The Ulrich Museum of ArtThe Ulrich Museum sits at the nexus of university and community in Wichita, offering global contemporary and modern art in a region where such experiences are limited. Despite being one of only two art museums in the city, awareness among local residents who often don't realize the museum exists for them, not just for students, is a persistent challenge. In this strategy circle, we'll tackle questions like: How do you build identity and relevance beyond your campus? How do you overcome practical barriers like parking while addressing deeper psychological barriers that make community members feel "this isn't for me"? As part of our commitment to MaP³ partner institutions, we're hosting this session to help the Ulrich team apply collective wisdom to their specific challenge. Session Structure1. The MaP team presents the challenge briefly 2. The Ulrich team addresses any gaps in MaP's characterization of the challenge, giving participants a richer view of on-the-ground realities 3. Participants ask clarifying questions 4. Participants and hosts discuss opportunities and approaches while Ulrich staff listen and take notes 5. The Ulrich team rejoins the discussion and the group explores implementation possibilities and potential barriers PreparationFor Ulrich staff, we've prepared a brief (and optional) preparation guide: Who Should ParticipateThis session is limited to a small number of participants. If this challenge resonates with your museum, we encourage you to RSVP and join the discussion. The session will be particularly valuable for: • University and college museum leaders • Museums in a location that presents inherent barriers to participation • Institutions working to expand community awareness If you're interested but unable to participate, leave a comment on this post ("add me"). Your comments help determine whether we'll host another Strategy Circle similar to this one.