• Award for Distinguished Service to Museums

    This prestigious award is presented by the AAM Board of Directors based on an individual’s cumulative contributions to their institution, the museum profession, and the museum community at large—including their work to innovate, enrich, and expand how museums in the United States serve their communities. Factors for consideration may include the nominee's record of work; related volunteer, board, and community service; publications or scholarship; advocacy; mentorship; and previous recognition and awards. Applications are due by December 4, 2026.
  • Eligibility

    • Nominee should have at least 20 years’ experience in the museum field or related fields. Affiliation with museums should be long-term, sustained, and an integral part of the nominee’s career.  
    • Nominee may be an active or retired museum professional or trustee.  
    • Nominee may be from or based in any country but must demonstrate significant contributions to US museums and/or the US museum field.  
    • Nominations for the Award for Distinguished Service to Museums must be submitted by someone who knows the nominee well; self-nominations are not accepted. 
  • Nominee's Contact Information

    Please complete the following information about the individual you are nominating for recognition.
  • Format: (000) 000-0000.
  • About the Nominee

  • Do you have a copy of the nominee’s CV or resume outlining the nominee’s work history, volunteer experience, service in the field, publications, and/or awards?*
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  • Please submit a compelling narrative summary of why the nominee deserves to be honored, outlining the nominee's contributions to museums, the museum profession, and/or the larger museum community.

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  • Your Contact Information

    Please provide your contact information so that we can communicate with you about award decisions. We will not contact the nominee unless they have been selected to receive the award.
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