Lincoln (Neb.) - Nov. 7, 2001 - The American Association of Museums today announced it is extending reaccreditation to the Sheldon Memorial Art Gallery and Sculpture Garden on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln campus, according to Sheldon director Janice Driesbach.
According to Driesbach, the review acknowledged the strength of the partnership of the museum staff, the Nebraska Arts Association and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in addressing the concerns that had led to tabling the reaccreditation last year. The reaccreditation of the museum had been tabled due to four areas of concern, including the need to demonstrate effective stewardship of the museum collections, the need for documentation detailing the operating budget, the need to clarify UNL's ongoing commitment in support of the museum, and the need to clarify the relationship between the museum and the Nebraska Arts Association.
All four areas have been addressed to the satisfaction of the American Association of Museums, clearing the way for today's affirmation of the reaccreditation.
"While not all of the areas could not be addressed fully in a one-year period, the association noted significant progress in all of the areas," Driesbach said. The signing of operating and collection management agreements between the Nebraska Arts Association and UNL, as well as the formulation of a strategic plan were major steps in addressing the concerns, she noted.
Nebraska Arts Association president Vicki Northrup said she is thrilled that the Sheldon has been reaccredited.
"The Nebraska Arts Association is very glad to be a part of this, and is now the dedicated support group for the Sheldon gallery," Northrup said.
"We are absolutely delighted about the level of investment and commitment shown by the NAA in helping the Sheldon regain accreditation," said UNL Chancellor Harvey Perlman, who was closely involved in the reaccreditation process. "The association played an essential role in regaining reaccreditation and we look forward to working with it in the future."
Driesbach said the reaccreditation is indicative of a strong
determination to adhere to high standards of operation with clearly
defined goals, consistent with the expectations of the profession. She
said a plan is in place for addressing collection storage over a four- to
five-year period, while plans are also in place to address the window and
air handling concerns.
For questions regarding these releases, contact:
tsimons1@unl.edu
(402) 472-8514, Fax: (402) 472-7825