The Wisconsin Veterans Museum achieved accreditation for the 50th time this year by the American Alliance of Museums, which is the highest national recognition given to the country’s museums.
The American Alliance of Museums (AAM) is the only organization representing the entire museum field, from art and history museums to science centers and zoos.
Since 1906, it has been championing museums through advocacy and providing museum professionals with the resources, knowledge, inspiration and connections they need to move the field forward, according to its website.
“This honor speaks volumes about the staff and leadership of the Wisconsin Veterans Museum,” said WDVA Secretary James Bond. “Not that we needed it, but it is further proof that WVM is one of the finest museums in our state and an example for the nation. And it is one more reason to be excited for the future of this cherished institution.”
Re-accreditation is the latest in a series of positive steps in WDVA’s plans to construct a new state-of-the-art facility on Capitol Square in Madison.
Earlier this year the state legislature gave the project a vote of confidence when they included funds to purchase the current building, which can only display 3% of the collection to the public. That was followed by unanimous approval of expanding those funds by the Wisconsin State Building Commission.
"This affirmation from our colleagues in the field is great news for the museum and its future,” said WVM Director Chris Kolakowski. “It confirms what an elite team is here and how we perform every day, executing with excellence. I could not be prouder of these results, or more excited about what is to come."
Of the nation’s estimated 33,000 museums, only about 1,100 are currently accredited. The WVM, which has been accredited since 1974, is one of only 21 museums in the state that have earned this distinction.
“The reaccreditation of the Wisconsin Veterans Museum by the American Alliance of Museums is a testament to the museum's dedication to honoring the service and sacrifices of our veterans,” said Dan Checki, chairman of the Wisconsin Veterans Museum Foundation. “This achievement reflects the tireless efforts of the staff, the commitment to preserving our state's military history and the invaluable role this institution plays in educating future generations.
"The Wisconsin Veterans Museum Foundation is proud to support the museum’s mission, and we are excited for its continued success in serving the veterans and the public alike."
To earn accreditation, a museum must first conduct a year of self-study and then undergo a site visit by a team of peer reviewers. The AAM’s Accreditation Commission, an independent and autonomous body of museum professionals, considers the self-study and visiting committee report to determine whether a museum should receive accreditation.
“Accreditation is a monumental achievement,” said Marilyn Jackson, AAM president & CEO. “The process demonstrates an institution’s commitment to best practice and is flexible enough to be accomplished by museums of any size.”
For more information on the AAM, click here.