Originally posted to the web in News, on Wednesday, May 7, 2008 2:52 PM CDT.
Museum earns national accreditation
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| Nathan Augustine (left), CEO of the American Association of Museums in Washington D.C. Ford Bell, Royce Kardinal and Mary Ann Igna. |
The Desert Caballeros Western Museum recently received subsequent accreditation from the American Association of Museums in Washington D.C.
The Museum was first granted full accreditation in 1996 and began the renewal process in 2006. The two-year renewal process included an institutional self-assessment, presentation of appropriate documentation of policies, procedures and strategic plan, as well as a review of programming, exhibitions and audited financial statements. The self-study was followed by a peer review site visit of four days when AAM officials determine that standards and best practices are applied to all areas of the institution’s operation and that the governing board, staff, and volunteers are committed to the highest standards of excellence. The Accreditation Commission then conducted hearings on each case to determine accreditation status.
Executive Director Royce Kardinal said she was extremely pleased to advise the Museum’s Board of Trustees of favorable completion and accreditation approval. The Desert Caballeros Western Museum is one of only 12 AAM accredited museum in the state of Arizona and the only museum in a rural area. She indicated that it was a tough and thorough process, but that the benefits derived by AAM designation enhance the Museum’s ability to develop exhibits and programming, as other museums and private collectors are made aware that traveling exhibits and temporary loans of art and artifact will be given the highest professional care while in the Museum’s possession. Further benefits of accreditation include increased credibility with funding agencies and donors who are made aware of the Museum’s commitment to AAM standards and best practices of museum operation and public service.
Kardinal noted how pleased she was to have the C.E.O. of the American Association of Museums, Ford Bell, personally present the certification while visiting the Desert Caballeros Western Museum during last week’s Museum Association of Arizona’s annual conference that was held in Wickenburg.
Board Chairman Jeri Robson was also delighted to share the news with residents and noted that she “hopes the entire community of Wickenburg takes pride in the accomplishments of the Desert Caballeros Western Museum.”
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