Like a rising tide, the feared consequences of climate change have made sustainability the social movement of our time. But sustainable practices don’t just apply to the environment. All museums face the challenges of sustaining collections, audience, relevance, financial strength, staff and volunteers, donors and members, the board, and, ultimately, sustaining their very future. Whatever the challenge, sustainability requires balancing the needs and demands of the present with those of the future, and the choices can be difficult.

Gathering at ocean’s edge in sunny San Diego, we’ll explore how museums across the West are embracing the opportunities and challenges of sustainability in all its forms. How are museums assuring that expanding collections continue to be preserved, accessible and interpreted in the future? What strategies are being employed for cultivating tomorrow’s audiences? How are museums assuring that they remain relevant, and for whom? Is a large endowment the answer? What is the role of new media, the web and technology? What are the best practices for sustaining a vibrant work force?

The good news is that a rising tide lifts all boats. We all benefit when we share and learn together – come get lifted with your colleagues in San Diego!