Mid-America Science Museum Earns Top National Accreditation

The 47-year-old museum is now among just 1,100 accredited institutions nationwide.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 9:48pm

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A highly structured abstract painting in muted earth tones, featuring sweeping geometric arcs, concentric circles, and precise botanical spirals, conveying the scientific and educational mission of the Mid-America Science Museum.The Mid-America Science Museum's new accreditation reflects its commitment to excellence in science education and community engagement.Hot Springs Today

The Mid-America Science Museum in Hot Springs, Arkansas has earned accreditation from the American Alliance of Museums (AAM) for the first time in its 47-year history, marking the highest level of national recognition available to museums in the United States. The accreditation process involves an extensive self-study and peer review to ensure the museum meets rigorous standards for quality and accountability across all aspects of its operations.

Why it matters

Accreditation from the AAM is a prestigious honor that recognizes the Mid-America Science Museum's commitment to best practices in museum management and its role as a leading destination for science education and family-friendly exploration in Arkansas. The accreditation strengthens the museum's standing and helps solidify its position as a key resource for advancing STEM learning in the state.

The details

To earn AAM accreditation, the Mid-America Science Museum underwent an extensive self-study and peer review process to demonstrate that it meets rigorous standards for areas like governance, financial management, education, and community engagement. The museum is now one of just 11 accredited museums in the state of Arkansas and part of an elite group of roughly 1,100 accredited institutions out of an estimated 33,000 museums nationwide.

  • The Mid-America Science Museum has been in operation for 47 years.
  • The museum earned AAM accreditation in April 2026.

The players

Diane LaFollette

CEO of the Mid-America Science Museum.

Marilyn Jackson

President and CEO of the American Alliance of Museums.

Mid-America Science Museum

A 47-year-old science museum located in Hot Springs, Arkansas that has earned accreditation from the American Alliance of Museums for the first time.

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What they’re saying

“This is a really proud moment for our museum. It reflects our team's work to create engaging, accessible experiences for our visitors and strengthens our role in advancing science education for students and families across Arkansas.”

— Diane LaFollette, CEO, Mid-America Science Museum

“Accreditation is a monumental achievement. The process demonstrates an institution's commitment to best practice and is flexible enough to be accomplished by museums of any size.”

— Marilyn Jackson, President & CEO, American Alliance of Museums

What’s next

The Mid-America Science Museum plans to celebrate its new AAM accreditation with a special event for the community on May 15, 2026.

The takeaway

The Mid-America Science Museum's achievement of AAM accreditation underscores the institution's commitment to excellence and its role as a leading hub for science education and family-friendly exploration in Arkansas. This prestigious honor will help strengthen the museum's reputation and solidify its position as a vital resource for advancing STEM learning across the state.