The International Council of Fine Arts Deans (ICFAD) is a vehicle through which members share information and ideas that enhance the leadership of arts units. ICFAD is the only organization focusing exclusively on issues that impact all creative units in higher education. ICFAD works to provide a foundation that allows you to do your job better and to expand your circle of contacts with people who share your challenges and experiences.
ICFAD helps train new deans and hone the talents of those who will be rising into leadership. Likewise, many annual conference sessions provide direct help, training, and advice on issues that are faced by all: fundraising, personnel review, and P&T issues, just to name a few. ICFAD also shares exciting new ideas and innovations developed by our colleagues.
ICFAD puts you in contact with other deans who share your interests, background, and challenges. For example, the ICFAD forum lets you immediately contact the entire membership for advice or information. Conferences allow you to network and find people who provide a wealth of information and professional guidance.
Discounted registration fee to attend our Annual Conference. 86 percent of survey respondents responded that the 51st Annual Conference of the International Council of Fine Arts Deans met expectations, and also stated "My participation at this conference will enhance my job performance." 93 percent stated that the registration fee was worth the quality of the Conference. Mark your calendar now for our 52nd Annual Conference October 21 – 24 in Atlanta's Midtown District.
International Symposiums. The ICFAD triennial international summer symposiums are informative and educational experiences that address global issues in the arts. The programs take advantage of the unique cultural aspects of the selected host sites and involve arts administrators, artists and government leaders of the area. The cultural enrichment that ICFAD's international members bring to the organization can be highlighted through the venues that are selected for the symposium. Plan to join us as we travel to China in 2017.
Donor Development events. Members are cordially invited to join colleagues for Spoleto 2015 and other events annually, and encouraged to bring donors or potential donors. These events are great opportunities to express your appreciation, and to cultivate deeper relationships through special experiences with the arts.
Top-notch Continuing Education. 100 percent of survey respondents who attended the Development Workshop in 2014 said that the program met or exceeded expectations. Mentoring Initiatives for New Deans (MIND) provides valuable small-group discussions about real world experiences for Deans of fewer than three years with experienced mentors. The Fellows Program inspires enthusiasm for leadership opportunities while providing a venue for those who are considering a transition into administrative roles in arts higher education to learn and practice elements of academic leadership.
Two formats for interactive Dean e-discussion. Communications from the Member Forum and our e-list are stored on our website for future reference, at your convenience and as needed.
Representation at national Arts Advocacy meetings and events. Your ICFAD Board of Directors and Executive Director are in touch with leaders from Americans for the Arts, as well as other membership-based associations reaching arts administrators in higher education on an on-going basis.
Representation at The Working Group on the Arts in Higher Education (WGAHE). Annually, trustees of the Council of Arts Accrediting Associations (CAAA), the Executive Committee of ICFAD, and their Executive Directors meet to discuss accreditation issues facing institutions of higher education. The CAAA Trustees are the Presidents and Vice Presidents of the four arts accrediting associations, the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD), the National Association of Schools of Dance (NASD), the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM), and the National Association of Schools of Theatre (NAST).
Complimentary Job Postings. Share opportunities at your institution with our members by e-mail and website posting for 90 days. Receive opportunities at other institutions by e-mail, as they are posted.
Communications throughout the year. Letting you know what other institutions are doing for their students, faculty and communities. And sharing with you how the Deans are getting it done!
Comprehensive data from our annual Executive Data Exchange. Formerly known as the Salary Survey, the questions and results have expanded to include information about budgets, staffing, programming and salaries from arts institutions of higher education.
Relationship building with colleagues. Collaborative efforts in ensuring transferability of fine arts credits from community colleges; developing entrepreneurship and creative industries programs; personnel challenges; striving to achieve innovations in social justice; strengthening university – community partnerships in the arts; and more were some of the issues addressed collaboratively this year.
Searchable on-line membership directory. Share the "Find an ICFAD Member" feature with your Administrative Assistant. It's quick and easy. No log-in required.