The Planting Fields Foundation has been selected to participate in the Museum Assessment Program, which is administered by the American Alliance of Museums.
Through guided self-study and on-site consultation with a museum professional, participation in the program will empower the foundation, as the steward of the historic Planting Fields estate and the landscape designed by the Olmsted Brothers, to better serve the citizens of Oyster Bay by facilitating its meeting and exceeding the highest professional standards of the museum field.
The foundation’s participation is made possible through funding provided by the Institute of Museum and Library Services. The program helps museums strengthen operations, plan for the future, and meet standards through self-study and a consultative site visit from an expert peer reviewer.
Planting Fields Foundation has chosen to do a MAP assessment as a supplement to initiatives underway to increase awareness about the historical and cultural significance of Planting Fields, its preservation work, and new programs designed to enhance the visitor experience.
“We are honored to have the opportunity to participate in AAM’s highly regarded MAP program,” states Gina Wouters, executive director. “Not only is it a reflection of our core values around standards of excellence, but the timing of this exercise is also perfectly aligned with the development of our Strategic Plan which will guide our operations and set the path for our longer-term vision. Together these projects create a strong foundation for cultural sustainability and institutional longevity.”
“Choosing to be part of the MAP program is indicative of the commitment to civic involvement, public service and overall excellence on the part of Planting Fields,” said Laura Lott, president of the American Alliance of Museums. “Studies have shown America’s museums to be among the country’s most trusted and valued institutions. MAP is designed to make them even better.”
Since its creation in 1981, the MAP program has served over 5,000 museums. MAP is supported through a cooperative agreement between the American Alliance of Museums and the Institute of Museum and Library Services.
For more information, including a complete list of museums participating in MAP, please visit www.aam-us.org/map, call 202-289-9118 or e-mail map@aam-us.org. For more information on Planting Fields Foundation, visit www.plantingfields.org.
Submitted by the Planting Fields Foundation
