Devon Akmon is an innovative, strategic, and results-driven leader with a proven track record in the cultural management and informal learning sectors. Currently, he serves as the Director of Michigan State University (MSU) Museum and as a core faculty member in MSU’s Arts, Cultural Management & Museum Studies program.After joining MSU in 2020, Devon successfully integrated Science Gallery Detroit, which he was initially hired to lead, into the MSU Museum, repositioning it as an innovation division named CoLab Studio. To align with MSU’s academic mission, Devon guided the staff in formulating a strategic plan to revitalize the museum. The plan outlines ambitious goals, clear objectives, and pragmatic strategies, ensuring the museum's relevance in an ever-evolving landscape. Concurrent with the unveiling of the strategic plan, the museum launched a new brand, symbolizing its renewed vision, values, and aspirations. This represents a significant chapter in the MSU Museum's journey, setting the stage for future growth and transformation.Previously, as a Senior Consultant at the DeVos Institute of Arts Management, Devon provided strategic guidance to over 70 cultural institutions, reinforcing his wide-ranging expertise in arts and cultural management.His notable tenure as the Director of the Arab American National Museum (AANM) further underscores his leadership prowess. Initially joining as a Curator when the museum opened in 2005, his career trajectory led to his appointment as Deputy Director in 2009 and subsequently as Director in 2013. Devon's leadership catalyzed both the physical and thematic expansion of the museum, which included the addition of the Annex, a community arts space, and an artist-in-residency unit in the neighboring City Hall Artspace Lofts. Under Devon's guidance, the AANM achieved several milestones, becoming a member of the National Performance Network and an internationally recognized TAKREEM Laureate for Cultural Excellence. Furthermore, the AANM became an Affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution and attained Accreditation from the American Alliance of Museums.In addition to his executive role, Devon currently serves on the board of the American Alliance of Museums and Artspace. He has held positions on numerous other governing boards, advisory committees, and national grant-making review panels. Devon has distinguished himself as a keynote speaker at national conferences and he frequently speaks at industry forums and events.