AAM Accreditation

Rockwell Museum of Western Art Achieves Subsequent Accreditation from the American Association of Museums

January 20, 2006

Corning, NY - The Rockwell Museum of Western Art has again achieved the highest recognition for a museum, accreditation by the American Association of Museums (AAM). Initially accredited in 1995, the Museum will undergo a subsequent review at least every ten years to maintain accredited status.

AAM Accreditation signifies excellence within the museum community. It is a seal of approval and strengthens individual museums and the entire field by promoting ethical and professional practices. Being accredited enables museum leaders to make informed decisions, allocate and use resources wisely, and maintain the strictest accountability to the public they serve.

Of the nation's nearly 16,000 museums over 750 are currently accredited. It is a rigorous but highly rewarding process that examines all aspects of a Museum's operations. Subsequent accreditation is equally thorough as museums go through the same process while keeping pace with the evolving high standards of the museum field.

"The American Association of Museums sets high standards and expectations for all aspects of the Museum and provides the opportunity for an intensive self-assessment. This Re-Accreditation achievement is a meaningful recognition of the work of both the Museum staff and the Board of Trustees. The validation from AAM that the Museum's programs and operations are done well; and to know the Museum is in good standing with its peers is a truly rewarding feeling, and affirmation to us that the Museum will continue to provide stewardship to our community by igniting human imagination and an engaging place to learn about American art," said Executive Director Kristin A. Swain.

Preserved and interpreted at the Rockwell Museum, American Western and Native American art are the focal point for engaging, dynamic exhibitions and educational events. The Museum presents special exhibits several times each year, as well as rotating its large permanent collection of art through the galleries. In addition to these exhibitions, the Museum provides Art Packs on several themes for young visitors to explore the galleries, and a Trading Post gift shop with Western and Native American items including the finest collection of silver and turquoise jewelry in the area. In the adjacent Cantina, visitors can enjoy Western-style lunch, dinner and snacks.

The Rockwell Museum of Western Art is located in the center of the Finger Lakes Wine Country region of New York State. The Museum is open to the public seven days a week; hours are 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Membership to the Museum includes yearlong free admission. And as always, Kids 17 & under are FREE!

As the national service organization representing the American museum community, the American Association of Museums addresses the needs of museums to enhance their ability to serve the public. For more about AAM and the Accreditation Program please visit www.aam-us.org.