U.Va. Art Museum earns accreditation

The U.Va. Art Museum has been awarded accreditation by the American Association of Museums – the highest honor a museum can receive. Accreditation certifies that a museum operates according to standards set by the museum profession, manages its collections responsibly and provides quality service to the public. Of 8,000 museums nationwide, only some 750 are accredited.

“There are many advantages to being nationally accredited,” said Jill Hartz, museum director. “Loans of artwork from museums and individuals and the booking of traveling exhibitions become much easier once potential lenders have the assurance that their work is going to a museum that meets the highest standards of the field.” In addition, foundations and other grant-making agencies, as well as individuals who may consider donating art or other assets, can be confident that the U.Va. museum will steward their gifts with utmost professionalism.

The accreditation process involves a year-long study of collections management, exhibitions, educational programs, financing, governance and mission.