FNYSMM 2026 Strategic Objectives

The Friends of the New York State Military Museum are advancing a focused 2026 plan to strengthen the Museum, honor veterans, expand public engagement, and build long-term support for New York’s military history.

Our 2026 objectives center on major commemorations, expanded programming, stronger partnerships, membership growth, museum store improvements, and the continued development of the Friends organization.

2026 Objectives

1

GWOT Campaign & 9/11 25th Anniversary

Support the Global War on Terrorism campaign and commemorate the 25th anniversary of September 11, honoring New York’s post-9/11 veterans and service members.

2

American Revolution 250th Anniversary

Develop programming and communications connected to America’s 250th anniversary and New York’s role in the Revolutionary War.

3

POMHA & VOY Awards

Support the POMHA and Veteran of the Year awards in the third quarter as part of the Friends’ recognition and community engagement efforts.

4

Committee Bench Strength

Deepen committee capacity across public affairs, digital, finance, and grant writing to better support the Friends’ mission and strategic priorities.

5

Collaborations & Partnerships

Expand relationships with organizations such as AUSA, ABMF, MOAA, and other partners aligned with military history, veterans, and public education.

6

Lecture & Speaker Series

Launch a year-round lecture and speaker series to bring historians, authors, veterans, and subject matter experts to the Museum community.

7

Support of Museum’s Exhibits & Visitor Experience

Initiate a long-term, private sector campaign to enhance the Museum’s exhibits, programs and overall visitor experience. This crucial initiative will ensure that The Friends remain an educational, financial, and programmatic pillar of support to the museum.

8

Museum Store & E-Commerce

Enhance the Museum Store and launch an e-commerce store in the first quarter to improve access, sales, and support for the Friends’ mission.

9

Communications & Marketing Plan

Implement a stronger communications and marketing plan, including audience targeting, printed materials, and historical storytelling.

10

Education Plan & Docent Recruitment

Implement an education plan and launch a docent recruitment effort in the second quarter to strengthen visitor engagement and educational programming.

11

MOA Renewal & Membership Program

Renew the Memorandum of Agreement with DMNA and overhaul the Friends membership program in the second quarter.

12

Governance & Records

Review bylaws, digitize organizational records, and implement an audit and controls program to strengthen governance and accountability.