Nomination Deadline: Jan. 31

The Award for Distinguished Service to Museums was authorized by the AAM Board in 1981 to recognize an individual's unusual excellence and distinguished contributions to the museum profession for a period of at least 20 years. The award, in the form of a medal and a citation, is usually presented at AAM’s annual meeting, and only given in years when there is a worthy nominee.

Nomination Criteria

Nominees are evaluated based on their individual contribution to their institution, to the museum profession and to the local, state, national or international museum community. Other areas to be taken into consideration include: publications, speaking engagements, mentorship, teaching, participation on boards, awards, citations and community service. Nominators are asked to cite examples of the nominee's participation in these areas and his/her impact. Nominees for this award shall have approximately 20 years or more experience in the museum field. The nominee may be a currently active or retired museum professional or trustee.

Nominations must be submitted by someone who knows the candidate well. Individuals cannot self-nominate.

Nomination Instructions

Complete applications must include the nomination cover sheet and the following materials:

• Narrative summary of the nominee's career, up to 5 pages double-spaced, explaining how the nominee's contributions to his/her institution, the museum profession and to the local, state, national or international museum community qualify him/her for the Award for Distinguished Service. Be sure to include information on the nominee's involvement in museums and his/her specific contributions and impact.
• A curriculum vitae of the nominee. One copy of supplemental published materials may be included as well as a bibliography of published work.
• Two one-page letters of support from individuals who know the nominee well.