Firstly, let me commend your incredible efforts and dedication to the field of museum work. However, I must ask you to be sure to be clear of what vision you are operating from - personal or that of the institution? Unless you have full backing (in terms of this place paying you for your expertise and hard work) I would be careful how high you build. Until the institution has to pay you for your work, they will in no doubt let you build as high as you would like. How will you look for gainful employment while you are busy helping this institution gain some visibility? Yes, this is a catch 22 issue because this experience will without a doubt help your chances at employment. I think you said it best yourself: focus on creating projects that will help the institution sustain itself, but create programs that will sustain themselves once you have moved on to a paying career position. Hope I was helpful. Elizabeth