The Western States Arts Federation (WESTAF) has been awarded a multiyear grant by the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust. This funding allows for the creation of a new position in WESTAF’s Alliances, Advocacy, and Public Policy (AAP) division and will enable WESTAF to continue program expansion related to addressing the pressing needs of the field. As WESTAF continues to innovate and evolve, the organization will retool existing and initiate new programs and services that will be further enhanced with the support of the new manager of public policy and advocacy, including ambitious convenings and policy, research, and capacity-building activities.

In collaboration with the Director of Impact and Public Policy, this new role will aid in the advancement of the organization’s state- and national-level advocacy objectives and help to lead efforts outlined in WESTAF’s 10-year strategic plan.

“WESTAF has a bold vision to strengthen the field and catalyze change with a focus on organizing for effective arts advocacy and contributing to innovation in cultural policy. In recent years, we have begun to reimagine our role as an equity-focused convener, thought partner, coalition builder, and catalyst, said Director of Impact and Public Policy David Holland. We are at a critical moment of stretching ourselves to engage a growing regional and national network of advocates and look forward to expanding our team to be responsive to their needs. WESTAF is thankful for this partnership with the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust, which will enhance our ability to serve as an advocacy and policy partner to the states in our region and to the field nationally.”