The Long Island Museum receives highest national recognition

The Long Island Museum recently announced that it has again achieved accreditation by the American Alliance of Museums, the highest national recognition afforded to the nation’s museums. 

Of the nation’s estimated 33,000 museums, roughly 1,100 are currently accredited. The Long Island Museum is one of only 69 museums accredited in New York. 

“Earning this prestigious re-accreditation from the American Alliance of Museums, and our longtime role as a nationally accredited museum for more than 50 years, reflects the continuing excellence of our inspiring, engaging exhibitions and programming, as well as the dedication and hard work of our staff, board of trustees, and many community partners throughout the years,” said Sarah Abruzzi, co-executive director, operations at The Long Island Museum.  

Alliance accreditation brings national recognition to a museum for its commitment to excellence, accountability, high professional standards and continued institutional improvement. All museums must undergo a reaccreditation review at least every 10 years to maintain accredited status. The Long Island Museum has been accredited since 1973.

“Accreditation is a monumental achievement,” said Marilyn Jackson, AAM president and CEO. “The process demonstrates an institution’s commitment to best practice and is flexible enough to be accomplished by museums of any size.”

Accreditation is a very rigorous but highly rewarding process that examines all aspects of a museum’s operations. To earn accreditation, a museum first must conduct a year of self-study, and then undergo a site visit by a team of peer reviewers. 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.

“We are so proud to have once again achieved AAM accreditation, and look forward to continuing to be a valued resource in our community as we move into the future with this important honor, and our commitment to being a place where people can return to repeatedly for unique and enlightening experiences,” said Joshua Ruff, LIM’s co-executive director, collections and programming.