ECLECTIC NETWORK MAGAZINE

The Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum at Florida International University has again achieved Accreditation by the American Association of Museums (AAM), the highest official recognition provided to US museums.

The Frost was initially accredited in 1999. The recognition signifies excellence and high quality given to the public museum community, to governments and its outside agencies, and to the founders of the museum throughout its didactic programs and exhibitions.

“This recognition validates that the museum has continued to operate as an institution of superior quality in our beautiful new building,” said Dr. Carol Damian, Director & Chief Curator of The Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum.

Of the nation’s estimated 17,500 museums, 775 are currently accredited. The Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum is one of only 50 museums accredited in Florida.

Accreditation is a rigorous process that examines all aspects of a museum’s operations. 

To earn accreditation a museum first must conduct a year of self-study, 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.

“Accreditation is emblematic of an institution’s commitment to public service and to overall excellence,” said Ford W. Bell, AAM president. 

“Attaining accreditation involves taking a hard look at yourself, allowing your peers in the field to do the same, and being judged to be superior in all areas,” added Bell.

Developed and sustained by museum professionals for 35 years, AAM’s museum accreditation program is the field’s primary vehicle for quality assurance, self-regulation and public accountability.

It strengthens the museum profession by promoting practices that enable leaders to make informed decisions, allocate resources wisely, and remain financially and ethically accountable.