arthur affleck III

Arthur G. Affleck, III, M.Ed., JD, President and CEO of the Association of Children’s Museums (ACM), brings a passion for children, education and equity and a proven record of accomplishment in the nonprofit sector. As the organization's leader, he is responsible for overseeing all aspects of operations, from strategic planning and fundraising to advocacy, program development and community engagement.

Committed to elevating children’s museums and enriching the lives of children and families, Mr. Affleck has led ACM to new levels of activity, visibility, and impact. Under his leadership, the organization has developed a new compelling strategic plan, increased funding, expanded programs, established new partnerships, and facilitated improved outcomes for member museums through enhanced engagement and new resources.

Prior to the ACM appointment, Mr. Affleck served as VP for Development and then Executive Vice President at the American Alliance of Museums (AAM). In addition to building a culture of philanthropy, he was engaged with efforts to expand museums’ growing role in the P-12 education ecosystem. He is also an author and serves on several nonprofit boards, including: The International Council of Museums (ICOM-US), where he serves as Co-Chair of the Board, Crystal Bridges American Art Museum-Windgate Advisory Board, the Board of Playful Learning Landscapes and the National Education Association Foundation Board.

Affleck is a recognized thought leader in the nonprofit sector. He is passionate about early childhood education and believes in the power of children’s museums and other cultural organizations to make a positive difference in the lives of children, teens, parents, and caregivers.

He earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from Tuskegee University, a master’s degree in administration & supervision of higher education from Auburn University, a Juris Doctor degree from the American University-Washington College of Law, and a certificate from the Institute for Educational Management at the Harvard University Graduate School of Education.

president + ceo, association of children's museums (ACM)