The Museum of Russian Art (TMORA) proudly holds accreditation by the American Alliance of Museums (AAM), the highest national recognition awarded to museums in the United States. This prestigious accreditation signifies excellence within the museum community and communicates TMORA’s commitment to high standards to governments, funders, outside agencies, and the museum-going public.

What is AAM Accreditation?

AAM Accreditation brings national recognition to a museum for its commitment to excellence, accountability, high professional standards, and ongoing institutional improvement. Developed and sustained by museum professionals for over fifty years, the AAM’s 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, ensuring the best possible service to the public.

A Testimony to Excellence

“Being awarded AAM accreditation is a testament to the Museum’s commitment to maintain its collection at the highest level of professional standards and to provide exhibitions and educational programs that enrich its visitors. Accreditation could not have been achieved without the full commitment of the Museum’s Board and the hard work and dedication of the staff,” stated Mark Meister, TMORA’s Executive Director & President.

A Rare Distinction

Of the nation’s estimated 33,000 museums, roughly 1,100 are currently accredited. The Museum of Russian Art is one of only four art museums accredited in Minnesota, joining the Minneapolis Institute of Art, the Walker Art Center, and the Weisman Art Museum in this distinguished recognition.

The Accreditation Process

Achieving accreditation is a rigorous but highly rewarding process that examines all aspects of a museum’s operations. To earn accreditation, a museum must first conduct a year of self-study, followed by a site visit from a team of peer reviewers. The Alliance’s Accreditation Commission, an independent and autonomous body of museum professionals, reviews the self-study and the visiting committee report to determine whether a museum should receive accreditation.

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

About the American Alliance of Museums

The American Alliance of Museums (AAM) is the only organization representing the entire museum field, from art and history museums to science centers and zoos. Since 1906, AAM has been championing museums through advocacy and providing museum professionals with the resources, knowledge, inspiration, and connections they need to advance the field. For more information, visit aam-us.org.