||| December 17, 2025 by Jess Kaswiner

Welcome to Class

Last week culminated a four-session Learning Circle, hosted by the Arts Engagement Exchange on the topic of “Collaboration”. Recalling our first day together, back in late October, I found myself surrounded by approximately 20 of my peers; leaders in Chicago’s arts and cultural organizations.  Each of us sitting obediently in horseshoe formation, caffeinated and eager.

Personally, I found the repeat-visit model the most successful aspect of the Learning Circle

Upon entering this space I had little expectation. Admittedly I assumed this would be much like other professional development workshops I have attended. You know… when an expert lectures for a while, divulges his or her ‘secrets for success’, and we all leave with a business card or two, and an informative 1-sheet with yet another “Top 10 Trendiest Websites/Blogs/newsletters, etc.” 
 
The thing is, the Learning Circle was not this. Immediately upon arrival Kelly Lavin, our fearless ‘teacher’ engaged each participant, having everyone share who he or she was and which organization they represented. As a program manager of a newly formed art non-profit -The Institute for Arts Entrepreneurship- I initially felt apprehensive about being an outsider among my colleagues.  However, having the opportunity to return to a familiar setting with familiar faces laid the groundwork for more fluid connectivity in the 'classroom', and for some (myself included) facilitated the building of real relationships.

The interactive and participatory nature of the workshops continued throughout the sessions. Returning to this familiar space, filled with familiar faces was particularly unique in that we were able to build relationships through our shared experiences. Certainly, the high profile speakers were informative and knowledgeable. But personally, I found the repeat-visit model the most successful aspect of the Learning Circle as it enabled participants to get to know one another beyond merely the organizations for which they serve. Individuals were given a platform through which to openly voice comments and concerns around the topic of collaboration. It felt only natural to then approach my “classmates” about potentially partnering with my organization because we had shared in this 4-week intensive learning and planning session together.
 
Lastly, one recurring concern that was brought to light time and again was the issue of marketing, and capturing an ever-shrinking audience. We had several conversations,going back and forth about the best social media tools, websites for advertising, and so on. However, it is my opinion that the best method of marketing is (and always will be) word of mouth. While I cannot say for certain what “collaborations” will transpire from these workshops, I can confidently say that we have all gained advocates; each one of our organizations has 15+ people who now know one another’s assets and can (if they so choose) support one another through continued encouragement and informal promotion.

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