FLAGSTAFF, AZ (February 24, 2015) – The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) announced today that the Museum of Northern Arizona (MNA) is among 30 finalists for the 2015 National Medal for Museum and Library Services. MNA was nominated for this award by Representative Ann Kirkpatrick. The National Medal is the nation’s highest honor given to museums and libraries for service to the community. For 21 years, the award has celebrated institutions that demonstrate extraordinary and innovative approaches to public service to make a difference for individuals, families, and communities.
“Museums and libraries are the lifeblood of our communities, serving as trusted providers of critical resources, educational training, skills development, and civic and cultural enrichment,” said Maura Marx, acting director of the Institute of Museum and Library Services. “We salute all of our finalists, including the Museum of Northern Arizona, for exemplary leadership in promoting lifelong learning while engaging and inspiring the public.”
“All of us at the Museum of Northern Arizona have dedicated ourselves to building an institution that engages with and serves our community,” said MNA President Dr. Robert Breunig. “We have formed many meaningful partnerships; promoted cross-cultural communication; expanded programs in science, culture and art for both children and adults; and informed the public about the past and future of our region. We are deeply honored that these efforts have been recognized by the Institute of Museum and Library Services.”
Representative Ann Kirkpatrick stated, “I was proud to nominate the Museum of Northern Arizona for the National Medal, and I’m sure my fellow Flagstaff residents join me in celebrating the news that it is a finalist. The educational, community-focused efforts of this museum benefit not only northern Arizona but our entire state.”
IMLS is encouraging community members who have visited the Museum of Northern Arizona to share their story on the IMLS Facebook page, www.facebook.com/USIMLS on the museum’s official “Share Your Story” day, Tuesday, March 10. In gratitude to the community it serves, MNA will host an admission free Community Day, also on March 10.
The National Medal winners will be named later this spring, and representatives from winning institutions will travel to Washington, D.C. to be honored at the National Medal award ceremony. Winning institutions also receive a visit from StoryCorps, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to recording, preserving, and sharing the stories of Americans of all backgrounds and beliefs.
To “Share Your Story,” please visit www.facebook.com/USIMLS. To see the full list of finalists and learn more about the National Medal, visit www.imls.gov/medals.
About the Museum of Northern Arizona
The Museum of Northern Arizona inspires a sense of love and responsibility for the beauty and diversity of the Colorado Plateau. Founded in 1928, the 200-acre campus includes an historic exhibit building with nine galleries showcasing the geology, anthropology and art of the region; research and collections facilities; a world-class museum shop; and more than 450 public programs annually. To learn more, visit musnaz.org or call (928) 774-5213.
About the Institute of Museum and Library Services
The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation’s 123,000 libraries and 35,000 museums. The mission is to inspire libraries and museums to advance innovation, lifelong learning, and cultural and civic engagement. IMLS grant making, policy development, and research helps libraries and museums deliver valuable services that make it possible for communities and individuals to thrive. To learn more, visit www.imls.gov.