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Get Involved

Propose a professional development session, topic, or speaker

Professional development is a core component of the Conference and includes in-depth seminars, workshops, discussions, and informational and business meetings that offer professional and peer insight on everyday skills and broader issues. We offer sessions that appeal to all segments of our attendee base.

We welcome your ideas for topics and speakers. Please complete the Microsoft Word doc session proposal form and email it to Conference staff. [61 KB Word doc]

First-time attendees: Join the New Colleague Connection

Whether you’re new to the field or just new to this Conference, the New Colleague Connection helps you make the most of your experience. Past events have included orientation and networking sessions, a Marketplace tour, and “101” workshops.

  • Sign up when you register and we’ll match you with an experienced mentor so you can learn about the Conference.
  • Check back soon for the New Colleague primers, which will be filled with helpful tips and resources.

Mentor first-time attendees

Have you attended the Midwest Arts Conference for at least three years? Do you love our event and want to help newcomers successfully navigate our jam-packed days in Grand Rapids? If so, share your experience and knowledge with new colleagues before, during, and after the Conference.

  • Check back soon for the Mentorship Guide, which will help you learn more about mentoring at the Conference.
  • Look for sign-up information when registration opens on May 1.

Volunteer at the Conference

Meet new people and make connections by volunteering an hour or two of your time during the Conference. We will need volunteers to:

  • Assist with professional development sessions
  • Help attendees navigate our venues
  • Welcome attendees to Conference events

Sign up when you register for the Conference or contact us for more information.
Note: Volunteers must be registered Conference attendees, and we are unable to offer discounts or perks to volunteers.

Serve on a future Spotlight Showcase panel

We are looking for presenters, artist managers, and agents who have a strong background in the performing arts to serve on our future Spotlight Showcase panels. Full details are on the nomination form. [649 KB PDF]