 Accreditation by the American Association of Museums is the highest level of operating excellence that a museum may achieve in America. Of more than 10,000 museums in this country, only 750 are accredited. That means that an accredited museum has joined a distinguished roster of outstanding
museums, made the top 10% honor roll that lends tremendous credibility to those seeking to engage the museum along scholarly lines, to collaborate
with on community affairs, or to invest in as a donor to the collections, or as a philanthropic donor to the endowment.
When a museum achieves accreditation, it can proudly state that it
operates, on all levels, according to current professional standards and
practices. The benefits are clear:
Enhanced Credibility and Positive Public Image: AAM Accreditation is a
widely recognized "seal of approval" that brings national recognition to
museums, especially those that may be little known outside their community
or region. By capitalizing on their accredited status, and greater
visibility within their community, museums have been able to strengthen
fundraising efforts, increase attendance, and attract new docents and
volunteers. Accredited museums find their status also makes a difference
in seeking objects on loan and traveling exhibitions from other institutions. Accredited status has also strengthened museums' appeal to
prospective donors and funding sources. An accredited museum also enjoys
an enhanced standing among its peers and an increased public perception of
quality and professionalism.
A Clearer Sense of Purpose: Museums emerge from the self-study process
with a better defined mission and a clearer understanding of institutional
strengths, aims and priorities. They gain new confidence in their ability
to preserve and strengthen their unique character and individuality of
each accredited museum. Accreditation is a valuable tool for regular
self-examination, evaluation, and improvement which allows the museum to
refocus on the fundamentals that motivate and justify its work.
Sound Management and Operations: The accreditation process fosters the
development of clearly articulated policies and procedures that help
museums run smoothly, use resources efficiently, and better define all
aspects of operations. The accreditation process also improves the working
relationship among the museum's staff and governing authority, as well as
between these two bodies. Members of the governing authority become more
familiar with standard museum practices while staff achieve a higher level
of professionalism. Inherent in the accreditation process is the need for
all departments and levels of staff and leadership to be involved, thus
building cooperation, morale, and a spirit of teamwork as everyone works
toward a common goal.
Improved Facilities: The commitment to seek accreditation can act as a
powerful incentive and provide a source of momentum for the development
and implementation of needed changes in a museum's physical plant,
including collections storage, security systems and work spaces. The
public relations value of accreditation also can provide museum staff and
the board the leverage needed to obtain support for capital improvements.
Bottom line: The Airpower Museum aspires to keep people free by telling
stories of airpower. And because the Airpower Museum is AAM Accredited,
you can rest assured that this is a museum worthy of your investment into
the next generation. By partnering with us to honor the sacrifice of the
men and women who built, serviced and flew the aircraft of WWII, you will
play a key role in inspiring the leaders of tomorrow. Will you partner
with us today?
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