Arab American National Museum Director Named in Crain's Detroit '40 Under 40'

Crain's Detroit Business announced the 2013 class of 40 under 40 honorees this week.

Among this year's recipients is Devon Akmon, 37, the director of the Arab American National Museum in Dearborn.

Akmon led the museum's application for Smithsonian Institution affiliation, a status it secured in 2007. 

In 2009, Akmon was promoted to deputy director at age 32, with the responsibility of managing the museum's day-to-day operations. In that role, he launched the process to gain accreditation from the American Alliance of Museums. The museum received the designation in September. 

In a previous interview with Patch, Akmon said he wants to expand the footprint of the museum beyond its walls by offering more engaging programs for the public.

Read a recent interview with Akmon on Dearborn Patch about the museum's accreditation and expansion plans in 2013.

Since 1991, Crain's Detroit Business has honored Metro Detroit's high achievers with its 40 under 40 awards. According to Crain's, the purpose of the award is to "honor the best and brightest in Southeast Michigan who have made their marks in business before age 40."

View the rest of the award recipients on the Crain's Detroit website.