Museum Mission—Strategic Plan
In 1993, the Nelson-Atkins initiated an ambitious self-study and long-range planning project. For inspiration and guidance, the Museum interviewed members of the community, from a broad spectrum of interests and experiences.
Four major ideas emerged as crucial to the life of the organization:
- More of the permanent collection on view.
- Increased space for special exhibitions.
- An expanded educational program.
- More parking.
At the heart of each of these expressed desires was one underlying theme: the need for more physical space.
The Strategic Plan was the springboard for the Museum’s expansion project: a capital campaign to raise private and corporate monies; a worldwide search for an architect; and finally that first turning of earth that marked the Nelson-Atkins’ exciting new journey.