ACC welcomes Jaimianne Jacobin as Director of Development

Minneapolis, MN
August 13, 2025

The American Craft Council (ACC), a national nonprofit with a mission to build a world where objects matter, makers thrive, and craft connects, is pleased to welcome Jaimianne Jacobin as the new Director of Development, effective today. Jaimianne comes to ACC from Craft in America, best known for its PBS series of the same name, where she served as Development Director.

“ACC is fortunate to have Jaimianne’s unique combination of skills, attributes, and craft field knowledge and experience at this vital time. By adding Jaimianne to our team, we are building capacity not only in fund development, but also ongoing program development and innovation across the organization.” —Andrea Specht, Executive Director of ACC

Jaimianne Jacobin previously served as Executive Director of the James Renwick Alliance for Craft, where she championed public appreciation, craft collecting, and the advancement of the Smithsonian’s Renwick Gallery. Jaimianne has made it her personal mission to increase craft patronage as a means of supporting artists and preserving the history of the field.

Her leadership experience also includes serving as Executive Officer of the Creative Crafts Council, Executive Director of the Shenandoah Arts Council, and owner of The Gray Gallery. Originally from New York’s Hudson River Valley, Jaimianne now lives in Racine, Wisconsin, home to the Racine Art Museum and the largest contemporary craft collection in the United States.

“I have long admired the American Craft Council as one of the leading voices in the field, championing artists, ideas, and communities that make craft such a vital part of our culture. It’s an honor to join this team and contribute to its important work at such a vital moment.” —Jaimianne Jacobin, Director of Development of ACC

About the American Craft Council:

The American Craft Council (ACC) is a nationwide nonprofit working to foster livelihoods and ways of living grounded in the artful work of the human hand, creating a more joyful, humane, and regenerative world. Building upon an 80+ year legacy of tradition and innovation, ACC is part of a growing coalition of organizations, makers, and advocates building a movement that supports craft-centered livelihoods and ways of living—an American craft renaissance. Learn more and take part at craftcouncil.org.