Santa Fe Standard

The New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science (NMMNHS) has proudly announced that it has been awarded reaccreditation from the American Alliance of Museums (AAM), a prestigious recognition that only a small fraction of museums across the country achieve.

In a statement, NMDCA Cabinet Secretary Debra Garcia y Griego expressed her excitement, stating, “Visitors to New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science know the museum is one of our state’s crown jewels, and we’re thrilled to see the institution recognized at the national level.”

The accreditation from AAM, which represents 35,000 museums and museum professionals nationwide, serves as a high-profile validation of a museum's operations and impact. Dr. Anthony Fiorillo, Executive Director of NMMNHS, was commended for his efforts in stabilizing funding, revitalizing the museum campus, and galvanizing the museum team. The AAM letter also praised the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs for its role in supporting the museum's improvement.

Dr. Fiorillo expressed his gratitude towards the museum staff, stating, “This accreditation affirms what New Mexico families have known all along: our museum is a world-class institution that pairs quality outreach programs with outstanding research.”

Accreditation by AAM is a significant achievement, as only just over 1,100 museums out of approximately 35,000 nationwide hold this distinction. The rigorous process of accreditation involves self-study and peer review, ensuring that museums continue to meet national standards and best practices.

The NMMNHS is part of the Department of Cultural Affairs and aims to preserve and interpret the natural and scientific heritage of New Mexico through collections, research, exhibits, and programs. The museum offers exhibitions and workshops in Geoscience, Bioscience, and Space Science, making it a hub for education and exploration.

As part of the reaccreditation process, the museum will undergo periodic reviews to uphold its level of professional performance, with the next self-study due in 2034. Visitors interested in learning more about the museum's work can visit their website at nmnaturalhistory.org.