About Us
Founded in 1993 as part of the Texas Association of Museums, SETMA, the Southeast Texas Museum Association, has served for more than three decades as a vital regional network for museum professionals across Southeast Texas.
While connected to TAM, SETMA operates independently, responding directly to the needs, challenges, and strengths of museums in our region. Through networking opportunities, workshops, presentations, and professional gatherings, SETMA has created a platform where museum staff, cultural workers, volunteers, students, and advocates can exchange knowledge, build relationships, and support one another.
Over the years, SETMA has been more than a professional association. It has been a source of connection and encouragement during difficult times, including hurricane disasters, institutional challenges, and the disruptions caused by COVID-19. In moments when museums faced uncertainty, SETMA provided a space for professionals to share resources, seek advice, and remain connected as a community.
Today, SETMA continues this mission by strengthening collaboration, supporting professional development, and promoting the essential role of museums in preserving history, culture, and community identity across Southeast Texas.
SETMA
We connect museum professionals across Southeast Texas through presentations, workshops, networking, and shared support.
How does it work?
SETMA membership connects you with a regional network of museum professionals across Southeast Texas. As a member, you are invited to participate in our quarterly meetings, hosted at different museums and cultural institutions throughout the region.
At these gatherings, we offer presentations, workshops, and opportunities to network with colleagues in the museum field. Members can learn how other museums operate, develop exhibitions, collaborate with organizations and institutions, engage their communities, and attract visitors.
SETMA is also a place to exchange ideas, share challenges, discover professional development opportunities, and build meaningful connections with others working in museums, history, art, culture, and heritage across Southeast Texas.
