Michael Birdsong Board of Director | Oklahoma Historical Society
Michael Birdsong Board of Director | Oklahoma Historical Society
The Oklahoma History Center Museum in Oklahoma City has once again achieved accreditation from the American Alliance of Museums (AAM), a recognition considered the highest national standard for museums. This accreditation, which the museum has held since 2014, is renewed every ten years and signifies excellence within the museum community and beyond.
The AAM's Accreditation Program is designed to recognize museums for their commitment to high professional standards and ongoing institutional improvement. The program, developed by museum professionals over five decades, serves as a primary means of quality assurance and public accountability within the field. It encourages informed decision-making and resource allocation while ensuring ethical and financial accountability.
Trait Thompson, executive director of the Oklahoma Historical Society, expressed pride in this achievement: “The Oklahoma History Center Museum is proud to once again be recognized as an accredited institution by the American Alliance of Museums. This achievement reflects the dedication and hard work of our staff, volunteers and leadership at the Oklahoma Historical Society. It affirms our commitment to excellence and underscores our mission to preserve and share Oklahoma’s history and culture. Accreditation ensures that we remain a trusted resource for our community, operating at the highest professional standards and on par with some of the nation’s most respected museums.”
Currently, about 1,100 out of an estimated 33,000 museums in the United States hold this accreditation status. In Oklahoma, only 14 museums have received this recognition.
Accreditation involves a thorough review process where a museum must first conduct a year-long self-study followed by a site visit from peer reviewers. The AAM's Accreditation Commission then evaluates these findings to decide on granting accreditation.
Marilyn Jackson, AAM president and CEO, emphasized the significance of this accomplishment: “Accreditation is a monumental achievement. The process demonstrates an institution’s commitment to best practice and is flexible enough to be accomplished by museums of any size.”
The Oklahoma History Center Museum is located at 800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr., open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. For more information on admission costs or group rates, contact 405-522-0765 or visit www.okhistory.org/historycenter.
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