How do museums benefit you, your friends and loved ones, and your community?
Lehigh University Art Galleries (LUAG) is participating in the nationwide Museum Social Impact in Practice (MSIIP) study, led by the American Alliance of Museums and funded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services.
The initiative, which includes 40 participating museums from 25 states, Washington, D.C. and Puerto Rico, provides data collection strategies, technical training and collaborative learning opportunities to cohort members seeking to analyze their museums’ social contributions. The only museum in Pennsylvania selected to participate, LUAG is also among only five academic museums nationwide that will join the research cohort.
What is social impact?
Social impact: "The effect of an activity on the social fabric of a community and the wellbeing of the individuals and families who live there."
Museums can play an essential role in sustaining strong, inclusive, and resilient communities by enriching education systems, bolstering economies, strengthening the social fabric of communities, improving people’s well-being, and beyond.
Compared to economic and educational impact, social impact is elusive and challenging to measure — which is why we need your help! Participation in the MSIIP study will help LUAG gain a more complete picture of how our exhibitions and programs enrich our Houston community.
You're invited to help us!
We invite you to join us and help measure our social impact!
Read to participate? Please complete our application form!
Thank you for your interest in supporting Lehigh University Art Galleries (LUAG) in measuring the social impact of museums! We are inviting community members to participate in an exciting study designed to understand how museum visits influence personal and social outcomes.
If selected, you and guests will enjoy free admission to the museum for three visits. After completing your visits, you’ll be asked to participate in a 30-minute survey to share how your experiences impacted areas such as lifelong learning, connection with others, and well-being.
As a thank-you, participants who complete the survey will receive a complimentary LUAG membership, granting you access to exclusive events, as well as limited-edition LUAG swag such as a sketchbook, t-shirt, posters, and more!
Your responses may be included in LUAG’s reports and publications (confidentially), helping us illustrate the vital role museums play in our communities. Participation is voluntary, and you may withdraw at any time. Join us in shaping the future of museums and their impact while enjoying these exclusive benefits!