SEMO MUSEUM RECEIVES FEDERAL GRANT

The Southeast Missouri State University Museum has been awarded a Museum Assessment Program grant by the Institute of Museum and Library Services.

Through guided self study and on-site consultation with a museum professional, the grant will enable the museum to evaluate its current practices, establish priorities to achieve professional museum standards and plan how to best serve the community.

Museum Director Dr. Jenny Strayer and the Museum Advisory Committee, a group of nine volunteers from the university and local community, will begin the self-study process this summer. The on-site visit will take place during the academic year on a date to be determined later.

The University Museum is located in Memorial Hall and specializes in fine art, archaeological artifacts and historical objects. It is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Currently on display is an exhibition of French art and objects, as well as several exhibits highlighting work from the permanent collection.

The AAM, based in Washington, D.C., is a national organization that represents the concerns of the museum community. The AAM assesses museum programs and accredits museums; provides education and training; operates international museum programs; and advocates for the advancement of museums. Since its founding in 1906, AAM has grown to include more than 15,000 members, including 10,852 museum professionals, 2,988 museums and 1,215 corporate members.