Mission 

The Allen Memorial Art Museum at Oberlin College inspires curiosity, inquiry, learning, and connection through experiences with original works of art for the broadest audience possible, both on campus and beyond.

Values

We are committed to creating and sustaining a welcoming, accessible environment for learning, enjoyment, and the exchange of ideas. 

We value: 

• Approaches to engaging people with art in ways that honor and amplify many perspectives; 
• Responsiveness to issues of importance to communities both on- and off-campus;
• Acquiring, presenting, and caring for the objects in our collection based on the best practices of our field, and in dialogue with source communities; 
• Evolution and change based on research, experimentation, collaboration, and ongoing assessment; 
• Professionalism, accountability, and teamwork to drive the mission of the museum forward; and 
• Respect and empathy for audiences, collaborators, and one another.

Vision

The Allen aspires—through innovative acquisitions, exhibitions, and programs—to make its collection integral to the campus experience of all Oberlin students, faculty, and staff, and to be a positive, creative catalyst for engagement and connection in the surrounding community and beyond.

We will achieve our vision by working collaboratively over the upcoming five years to:

• Cultivate Inquiry, Collaboration, and Care 
• Increase our Value to the Oberlin Experience
• Build the Foundation for Growth