FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 21, 2024

Wisconsin Veterans Museum Receives Highest National Recognition

Awarded Re-Accreditation from the American Alliance of Museums

MADISON—The Wisconsin Veterans Museum (WVM) has again achieved accreditation by the American Alliance of Museums, the highest national recognition afforded to the nation’s museums. This achievement reflects the excellence and professionalism of the entire WVM staff as they preserve and educate the public on Wisconsin’s veteran history.

“This honor speaks volumes about the staff and leadership of the Wisconsin Veterans Museum,” said WDVA Secretary James Bond. “Not that we needed it, but it is further proof that WVM is one of the finest museums in our state and an example for the nation. And it is one more reason to be excited for the future of this cherished institution.”

Re-accreditation is the latest in a series of positive steps in WDVA’s plans to construct a new state-of-the art facility on the Capitol Square. Earlier this year the State Legislature gave the project a vote of confidence when they included funds to purchase the current building, which can only display 3 percent of the collection to the public. That was followed by unanimous approval of expending those funds by the Wisconsin State Building Commission. 

"This affirmation from our colleagues in the field is great news for the Museum and its future,” said WVM Director Chris Kolakowski. “It confirms what an elite team is here and how we perform every day, executing with excellence. I could not be prouder of these results, or more excited about what is to come." 

Of the nation’s estimated 33,000 museums, only about 1,100 are currently accredited. The Wisconsin Veterans Museum, which has been accredited since 1974, is one of only 21 museums in the state that have earned this distinction.  

“The reaccreditation of the Wisconsin Veterans Museum by the American Alliance of Museums is a testament to the museum's dedication to honoring the service and sacrifices of our veterans,” said Dan Checki, Chairman of the Wisconsin Veterans Museum Foundation. “This achievement reflects the tireless efforts of the staff, the commitment to preserving our state's military history, and the invaluable role this institution plays in educating future generations. The Wisconsin Veterans Museum Foundation is proud to support the museum’s mission, and we are excited for its continued success in serving the veterans and the public alike."

Developed and sustained by museum professionals for over fifty years, the Alliance’s museum accreditation program is the field’s primary vehicle for quality assurance, self-regulation, and public accountability. To earn accreditation, a museum first must conduct a year of self-study, and then undergo a site visit by a team of peer reviewers. AAM’s Accreditation Commission, an independent and autonomous body of museum professionals, considers the self-study and visiting committee report to determine whether a museum should receive accreditation.

“Accreditation is a monumental achievement,” said Marilyn Jackson, AAM President & CEO. “The process demonstrates an institution’s commitment to best practice and is flexible enough to be accomplished by museums of any size.”

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For additional information, contact:

WDVA Office of Public Affairs

Colleen Flaherty, Communications Director

608.266.0517

colleen.flaherty@dva.wi.gov

About the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs

The Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs works on behalf of Wisconsin's veterans community — veterans, their families and their survivors — in recognition of their service and sacrifice to our state and nation. For more information,visit www.WisVets.com.