Humanities Councils Week

Why did we make this?

In 2025, the Mellon Foundation partnered with the Federation of State Humanities Councils to provide emergency funding to the 56 state and jurisdictional councils when $65 million in federal funding was eliminated. The idea for Humanities Councils Week emerged from conversations with the Federation about how to increase visibility for the Councils.

 

Production Process

The Federation of State Humanities Councils sent a survey to all 56 councils, asking them to submit photos, videos, and descriptions of their programs. I curated the content and designed a package of infographics, videos, and compelling stories about how the humanities are present in everyday life. I created a social media toolkit with graphics and copy for the Councils to use during the campaign.

​

Key Results

• Achieved an engagement rate of 5.2% per impression

• Garnered 51,000+ impressions

• 33 of 56 Councils activated the campaign hashtag with original or reposted content