ABOUT ADVISORY PANELS

Advisory Panels are essential to the Virginia Commission for the Arts (VCA), providing critical recommendations and guidance on grant applications. Advisory Panelists are selected through a public nomination process, including self-nominations and recommendations from VCA staff and the Commission Board. Each Panelist serves a one-year term, with the option to serve up to three consecutive years.

These distinguished leaders in the arts bring their professional expertise, collaborative skills, and commitment to advancing the transformative impact of the arts across Virginia. Advisory Panelists are willing to dedicate time to:

• Familiarizing themselves with VCA’s programs and Guidelines.
• Reviewing grant applications prior to the Screening Session.
• Attending a virtual training session.
• Participating in a one-day Screening Session via Zoom to discuss and vote on applications.

Each regional and statewide Advisory Panel consists of five to seven members, representing diverse perspectives, arts disciplines, regions, and cultural backgrounds. The following VCA grant programs are reviewed by these Panels:

• General Operating Support (GOS): Medium and Large Arts Organizations – April/Early May
• Community Impact Grants – May
• Touring Artist Roster- Late August
• Teaching Artist Roster- Late August

Advisory Panelists independently review and score grant applications using VCA’s online system. They then participate in a virtual Screening Session via Zoom to discuss and vote on applications. In recognition of their time and contributions, Panelists receive an honorarium.  Detailed eligibility requirements can be found in the “Advisory Panels” section of the Guidelines for Funding.

Nominate a panelist

Interested in serving as an Advisory Panelist or nominating someone else? Click below to submit a nomination today!