Annual Awards

Every year, the Michigan Museums Association presents awards to exceptional programs, exhibits, and individuals that made an impact during the year. 

“It is such an honor to be able to recognize some of the good work and dedicated service in Michigan’s museums. Michigan’s museums provide jobs and support communities. They educate children and engage families and groups. They preserve and share priceless works of art and historic artifacts, and promote scientific exploration and a better understanding of our shared Michigan culture. The individuals and institutions honored on an annual basis represent the thousands of people in our state who are passionate about their work in museums.”- Lisa Craig Brisson, Executive Director, MMA

Winners are listed by year awarded. Click the year to see the press release and recipient photos.

2020
The 2020 awards were presented to 57 individuals for good works throughout 2020. Please click on link above to learn more about the recipients. 

2019
Louise Stewart Beck - MMA Volunteer of the Year
Dr. Bradley Taylor - President's Award
Michigan State University Museum - Peninsula's Prize
Holocaust Memorial Center Zekelman Family Campus - Outreach Award
Grand Rapids Children's Museum - Outreach Award Honorable Mention

2018
Julie Cook - MMA Volunteer of the Year
President's Award - John Bracey
Daniel Truckey - Peninsulas Prize
Birmingham Museum - Outreach Award

2017
Melanie Parker - MMA Volunteer of the Year
Sandra Sageser Clark - President's Award
Detroit 67 Collaboration - Peninsulas Prize
Detroit Historical Society
Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History
Detroit Institute of Arts

2016
Bettina Cousineau - MMA Volunteer of the Year
Juanita Moore - President's Award
Sloan*Longway - Peninsulas Prize

2015
Sanam Arab - MMA Volunteer of the Year
Marilyn Merdzinski - President's Award
Nancy Bryk - Peninsulas Prize
David Pilgrim - Peninsulas Prize

2014
Fannie Hoeksema - Unsung Hero
President's Award - Gene Jenneman
Peninsulas Prize - Graham Beal
Birmingham Historical Museum and Park - Best New Experience

2013
Tom Howes - Unsung Hero
Steve Arseneau - President's Award
The BEL - Best New Experience
Grand Valley State University Art Gallery - Best New Publication (Budget less than $500,000)
Kalamazoo Valley Museum - Best New Publication (Budget greater than $500,000)
Collections Objects and Hands-on Exhibits/Interactions - Most Thought Provoking Conference Session

2012
Lew Crusoe - MMA Volunteer of the Year
Gregory Witkopp - President's Award 
Muskegon Museum of Art - Peninsulas Prize

2011
Bill Falkenberg - MMA Volunteer of the Year
ray Silverman - President's Award/Peninsulas Prize
Devos Art Museum at NMU and Marquette Regional History Center - Most Awesome Experience

2010
Publication Awards
Saugatuck-Douglas Historical Society
Cranbrook Art Museum
The Henry Ford
Mackinac State Historic Parks