The Wilton Historical Society has been selected to participate in StEPs-CT, a statewide, 26-month integrated program of professional development for smaller cultural organizations.
The program is based on the national Standards and Excellence Program for History Organizations (StEPs). Since its debut in 2009, StEPs has helped 585 institutions nationwide, including 27 in Connecticut.
The historical society was one of 23 organizations recently accepted into the program after a competitive application process. Support and training comes via curriculum-based workshops, coaching from a dedicated mentor, and access to a Connecticut Humanities grant fund earmarked for initiatives related to achieving StEPs-CT program standards. Over the course of the program, the historical society will work to achieve certificates in six areas of museum practice.
StEPs-CT is a program of Connecticut Humanities and the Connecticut League of History Organizations, in partnership with the Connecticut Historical Society, based on a curriculum of best practices developed by the American Association for State and Local History.
“The society is very pleased to have been given this opportunity. We are eager to engage in a process which will guide us as we review our mission and refine our vision,” said Executive Director Leslie Nolan. “We are grateful and excited to be working within the StEPs structure to further raise the standards of our museum practices as we continue to evolve.”
Connecticut Humanities, a nonprofit affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities, provides opportunities to explore the history, literature and the vibrant culture that make our state, cities and towns attractive places to live and work. Information: cthumities.org
The Connecticut League of History Organizations (CLHO) builds connections among those who preserve and share the stories and objects of our past. Information: clho.org.
Wilton Historical Society, founded in 1938, offers a broad variety of exhibitions, programs and special events presented with historical accuracy and depth. Information: wiltonhistorical.org.