The American Alliance of Museums announced on Tuesday that it has reaccredited the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History.
Describing its accreditation as the “gold standard of museum excellence for over 50 years,” the American Alliance of Museums (AAM) published a list of 43 museums across the country — including two first-time accreditations — that had been accredited at the October meeting of its Accreditation Commission. The Fort Worth Museum of Science and History (MSH) was on the list.
“AAM accreditation signifies a museum’s quality and credibility to the entire museum community, to governments and outside agencies, and to the museum-going public,” said AAM. “The Accreditation Program ensures the integrity and accessibility of museum collections, reinforces the educational and public service roles of museums, and promotes good governance practices and ethical behavior.”
Museums must be reaccredited every 10 years, according to the organization. Earlier this year, the MSH, which has been accredited since 1971, had its application “tabled” over concerns about the museum’s leadership and matters relating to its collections, according to the Fort Worth Report.
When the news outlet reached out to the AAM for an interview, the organization issued the following statement: “It is our policy not to speak to the specific circumstances of any particular museums or share the details of a decision.”
“This reaccreditation is a testament to our unwavering commitment to maintaining the highest standards in all facets of our museum,” Regina Faden, who was appointed the museum’s president in July, said in a press release, per the FWR.
“We take great pride in being recognized as an institution dedicated to excellence and continual improvement. Our team’s hard work and dedication to these standards contribute to the vibrant and enriching experiences we provide for our community,” she said.
Although accreditation is not required, it adds to an institution’s reputation and makes it easier to apply for grants and fundraise. Just over 1,100 museums of the nation’s estimated 33,000 are accredited, according to the AAM. Other reaccredited museums in Texas include the Blanton Museum of Art in Austin and the International Museum of Art & Science in McAllen.
