Arkansas Museums Association

11/04/2025

The White House recently directed the termination of thousands of grants from federal agencies that serve the history field, including the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH), Institute for Museum and Library Servies (IMLS), and National Park Service (NPS). These grants provide vital support for history organizations of all types, sizes, and locations.

This sudden, widespread loss of funding is rapidly creating a crisis for America's history community. We are hearing of public programs and services diminished, multiyear projects canceled, practitioners furloughed or laid off, and even organizations forced to consider closing permanently.

AASLH is doing everything it can to support the field during this challenging time. This includes encouraging outreach to elected officials and local news media, sharing advocacy resources and updates, gathering stories of local impact, and, most recently, considering possible legal avenues for defending NEH, IMLS, and NPS. (See our advocacy updates for NEH and IMLS.)

Copies of grant cancellation notices could bolster analysis of potential legal options in support of these federal agencies. For this reason, we are asking history organizations that have received cancellation letters and emails from NEH, IMLS, and/or NPS to send copies of these notices to AASLH by filling out this survey. Submitting these notices will not only help deepen AASLH’s understanding of the state of the field, but—when shared with your permission—could strengthen possible strategies for seeking legal remedy.

If your organization has been affected by recent executive actions, please take a few minutes to fill out this form to share your experience and, if applicable, evidence of grant cancellation.

Weakening the federal agencies that power our field deprives the American public of access to history. Thank you for joining AASLH in our efforts to defend these agencies and America’s history community.

03/04/2025

This conference closed with wonderful candlelight banquet. No power, really was beautiful with candlelight in a Historical Home
The Bunson House was the location. I have pictures before the power went off and while it was off. Hard to read awards but be did it with flashlights.
Th awards were: Award of best in Education went to Historic Arkansas Museum with the collaboration with Old State House Museum and State House.
Award for Exhibit with budget over $150,000 s awarded to the Clinton Library for the exhibition called Commanding the Screen: The American Presidency in film and TV.
The awardfor Exhibit design with a budget of under $150,000 was awarded to Arkansas State Capital for The Astronomical: Astronomy in the Natural State.
Volunteer of the year Bev Cortina Tontitown Historical Museum
Professional of the year Tina Pfister Shiloh Museum of Ozark History
The Peg Newton Smith Lifetime Achievement award was presented to Linda Goza for allher years of service as treasure for AMA and years with the park service.

02/04/2025

A great day or networking and sessions. Great turnout even with weather not being nice
Yesterday was elections of new officers and a thank yoi to the past officers

New officer's
DR Ray Screws Camp Robinson Presidenr
Angela Gibbs. Jacksonport park. VP
Samantha Ashley Old State House Treasurer
Fara Foster. Museum of AR Grand Prairie Secretary.
Congratulations granulation to the new officers and good job for the out going
Awards Banquet tonight
More photos

01/04/2025

Let the fun begin. We are meeting at Historical Fort Washington

13/03/2025

🎉 Get Ready for the Arkansas Museum Association Conference! 🎉

✨ Join us at the Historical Fort Washington State Park for an unforgettable experience! ✨

The Arkansas Museum Association Conference is coming to one of the state’s most iconic locations: Historical Fort Washington State Park! 🌟 Immerse yourself in the rich history and breathtaking views of this stunning venue while connecting with museum professionals from across the state.

🔹 When? [March 29 - April 3] 🔹 Where? Historical Fort Washington State Park, Arkansas

🌍 What to Expect:

Engaging sessions with experts in the field of museum curation, preservation, and education
Hands-on workshops and inspiring speakers sharing cutting-edge ideas
Networking opportunities with fellow museum professionals, partners, and sponsors
Exclusive tours of the historic fort and its stunning grounds

🎤 Why Attend? Whether you’re looking to expand your knowledge, boost your career, or simply enjoy the beautiful setting, this conference has something for everyone!

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with the museum community in Arkansas. Register now, and get ready for an experience full of inspiration, collaboration, and unforgettable memories!
Still time to register..
https://www.arkansasmuseums.org/event-6005402

Let’s make history together! 📚✨

19/02/2025

There are wonderful memories now from 2025 Jeykell Management Class

08/02/2025

Getting down to the wire with the Awards. All of us have someone or an exhibit that we really care about.

For children and/or adult programming (not a special event) that advances knowledge and understanding of a particular subject and demonstrates exceptional standards. 

08/02/2025

This is the proposed slate of officers for the upcoming 2 years. This is the nomination committee selection. Additional Nominations can be done from the floor on on the day of the Business Luncheon.

President: Dr. Ray Screws - National Guard Museum

Vice President: Angela Gibbs - Jackson port

Secretary: Fara Foster - Museum of the Arkansas Grand Prairie

Treasurer - Samantha Ashley - Old State House

Past President - Gloriaann Sanders- Calico Rock Museum and Visitors Center

13/07/2024

Museum people are a group like none other
We help our sisters and brothers in need and the institutions we work with.

I received this post today the the son of one of our family is in need. Her son is fight for his life.

Please do what you can.

Hi there! My name is Jacob, starting this Go Fund Me on behalf of my good f… Jacob Foster needs your support for Support Ian's Recovery from a Severe Accident

03/06/2024

The Jekyll Island Management Institute (JIMI) is an immersive experience for museum professionals who seek to broaden their understanding of museum operations to advance to management or leadership roles in the museum field.

During the 8-day Institute, participants will learn current best practices of visitor-facing and behind-the-scenes work in museums with a focus on incorporating diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion, and the use of technology into all subjects. JIMI attendees will have the opportunity to hear from current experts across the museum field and work collaboratively with peers to discuss challenges and solutions to real-world museum issues.

We hope once again to award a scholarship for JIMI 2025. The program will be held January 21-28, 2025. The tuition will be $950.
Anyone interested should email their request.

We are here to support and commit to the advancement of museum professionals in Arkansas! If you need further information, please don’t hesitate to let me know.

31/05/2024

This is an exciting time for museums! We are thrilled to announce that Marilyn Jackson, the new President, and CEO of the American Alliance of Museums (AAM), will be visiting us here in Little Rock on June 13th at 2 PM. The American Alliance of Museums is the only organization representing the entire museum field, from art and history museums to science centers and zoos. As an AAM commissioner for this organization that includes over 35,000 member museums, I understand the importance and significance of her visit to the Natural State.
President Jackson is enthusiastic about meeting with leaders in museums, gardens, zoos, and others to share her vision for the future of the organization. More importantly, she wants to hear from you. As she steps into her new role and strategically plans for the future of our valuable institutions, your voice is invaluable. I would love to see as many of you as possible join us here at the museum for this unique opportunity.

RSVP to reserve your space no later than Thursday, June 6, so we can ensure we accommodate all who plan to attend.
For any questions, please email [email protected]