News | Devon Akmon

Honoring the Life and Legacy of Ismael Ahmed

February 1, 2026 News

It has been heartening to read the many memorials shared online after the passing of Ismael Ahmed this weekend. He has had an outstanding and enduring impact on my life. I first came to know Ismael when I joined the Arab American National Museum staff during its opening in 2005. I had the good fortune of working with him while he was the Executive Director of ACCESS, and I always admired his leadership and his vision for a more justRead More

Media Spotlight Grows on How Museums Rebuild Trust in a Divided America

January 25, 2026 News

A few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of contributing an article to The Conversation titled How Museums Can Rebuild Trust in a Divided America. In that piece, I wrote about the deep polarization affecting the country and the strain it places on public trust. Even so, museums continue to stand out as reliable, nonpartisan institutions where people feel they can explore ideas without the pressure to choose sides. I argued that museums can play a valuable role by creatingRead More

MSU Museum Reopens With Bold and Timely Blurred Realities Exhibition

January 25, 2026 News

The MSU Museum reopened to the public on January 14, 2026 after 18 months of work and more than 28 million dollars in renovations. Despite a heavy snowstorm, more than 400 visitors joined us to celebrate this milestone. Michigan State University Provost Laura Lee McIntyre and Trustee Rebecca Bahar-Cook shared warm remarks that welcomed our communities back into the museum. The day set an energizing tone for what promises to be a full and exciting year for the MSU Museum.Read More

Building the Future: A Year of Transformation at MSU Museum

September 2, 2025 News

At the MSU Museum, the 2024–2025 year was nothing short of transformative. While our physical building undergoes a major renovation, our spirit of innovation and connection has never been stronger. This year has proven that a museum is far more than its walls; it is a living, breathing community hub for creativity, dialogue, and discovery. Taking the Museum Beyond Its Wall Even as construction crews reimagine our space, we have expanded into the community like never before. From a bustlingRead More

Honoring February 13: A Memorial for Reflection & Healing

August 17, 2025 News

This week marks an important milestone for the Michigan State University community. After nearly two years of thoughtful planning, discussion, and collaboration, the MSU Board of Trustees has unanimously approved the final design for the February 13 Permanent Memorial. As someone who has had the honor and privilege of co-chairing the February 13 Permanent Memorial Planning Committee, I am filled with gratitude. The process has not been easy. The weight of the task demanded compassion, patience, and care, but theRead More

Guest Appearance on WDET’s The Metro: Museums and Political Pressure

August 17, 2025 News

I recently joined WDET’s The Metro to discuss the White House’s directive ordering a “comprehensive internal review” of eight Smithsonian museums. The administration has said it wants institutions to celebrate American exceptionalism instead of addressing the nation’s racial history, and to avoid any negative portrayals of the president. Already, one Smithsonian museum has altered its exhibit on Donald Trump, removing references to his false claims about the 2020 election and his role in encouraging the Capitol riot. While officials describeRead More

A Summer of Museum Leadership

August 2, 2025 News

Summer is often seen as a slower season in the academic world, a time to regroup and plan ahead. However, at the Michigan State University Museum, this summer has been full of activity and momentum. Our team has been deeply immersed in a $28 million renovation project, working through key decisions about infrastructure, finishes, furnishings, and gallery designs. Alongside the planned work, we also faced unexpected challenges, including the urgent relocation of collections from one of our storage facilities dueRead More

Honored to Lead: Stepping into the Role of AAM Board Chair

June 7, 2025 News

I’m deeply honored to step into the role of Board Chair of the American Alliance of Museums for the next two years, representing the MSU Museum and Michigan State University. AAM has shaped my professional journey for over 20 years, serving as a hub for learning, friendships, and coalition-building. At this pivotal moment for museums, I’m proud to serve alongside such a dedicated board, leadership team, and staff. As we begin a strategic planning year, I look forward to chartingRead More

Techno: The Rise of Detroit’s Machine Music at the MSU Museum

April 11, 2025 News

Back in February, during Black History Month, the MSU Museum opened a new exhibition titled Techno: The Rise of Detroit’s Machine Music. Curated by Dr. Julian Chambliss, Val Berryman Curator of History, in collaboration with acclaimed DJ John Jammin’ Collins of the pioneering Detroit collective Underground Resistance, this immersive experience explores the origins of techno in Detroit and its evolution into a global phenomenon. The exhibition also highlights artifacts that represent this rich, yet often under-appreciated, history. A standout featureRead More

IMLS Under Threat: The Alarming Consequences for Museums and Libraries

April 11, 2025 News

On March 14, President Trump signed an executive order, Continuing the Reduction of the Federal Bureaucracy, which called for the “reduction in the elements of the Federal bureaucracy that the President has determined are unnecessary.” Among the agencies targeted by this order was the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). I previously shared some reflections on this executive order and its potential impact on IMLS and its service to the museum field. Since then, much more has unfolded. ToRead More