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Michigan museum professionals, volunteers, and supporters gathered at the Grand Rapids Public Museum on May 15 to present the 2025 member awards. At the awards celebration, thirty-five MMA members and advocates were recognized for special service to their communities, colleagues and others in five different award categories.
President's Award  The President’s Award is bestowed annually to individuals, companies, or organizations by the current MMA Board President. The award recognizes exemplary support of MMA, service to the Michigan museums field, a career of distinction or for any other criteria deemed appropriate by the MMA Board President. For 2025, MMA Board President Caitlyn Perry Dial selected Nathan Kemler, Director of Galleries and Collections at Grand Valley State University, in recognition of his longtime commitment and service to the profession. | Peninsulas Prize: Leadership
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The Peninsulas Prize for Leadership was presented to Kim Kelderhouse, Peninsulas Prize: Community Engagement | Peninsulas Prize: Advocacy |
.png){kind=logo} The Peninsulas Prize for Community Engagement was presented to the Sanilac County Historic Village & Museum for its consistent commitment to inclusivity, accessibility, and fostering a sense of
belonging for under-represented groups. The museum has made significant strides in ensuring that its programs and events are free
and open to all, particularly those from underserved and economically disadvantaged backgrounds.Through its popular, family-friendly events—such as Paczki Day, Family Fun Day, and the Christmas Lighted Trail—the museum has created accessible spaces where community members can come together, celebrate, and create lasting memories without financial barriers. In addition, the museum’s partnership with local organizations like the Sanilac County Community Barn Theatre and the Port Sanilac Farmers Market has expanded its reach, providing further opportunities for community involvement and engagement. By prioritizing accessibility, supporting local traditions, and offering programs that celebrate cultural diversity, the Sanilac County Historical Museum has effectively engaged a wide range of participants and ensured they feel valued and included. |  The Peninsulas Prize for Advocacy was presented to State Representative Will Snyder, who represents Michigan's 87th House District. Rep. Snyder played a key role in advancing House Bill 5502, which established the Community Museum Grant Program. Administered by the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO), this program provided up to $9 million in funding to support museums and nonprofit foundations across the state, enriching Michigan's cultural landscape.
A lifelong Muskegon resident, Rep. Snyder is deeply committed to community activism in the Greater Muskegon area. Now in his first term, he brings a passion for public service and a dedication to uplifting working families. His advocacy is shaped by his experience with his local union, where he fought for workers' rights and economic opportunity. As the Chair of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Economic Development, and Lifelong Learning, Rep. Snyder champions workforce development initiatives and policies that expand access to high-paying, quality jobs. |
MMA members were invited to nominate colleagues they feel have done something particularly special this year. This year's recipients were nominated for a multitude of reasons, including exhibit design, advocacy work, fundraising efforts, community engagement, collaboration, making exhibits and institutions more accessible, and for being helpful colleagues, mentors, and leaders in the field. The thirty-one members presented with a Colleague Champion Award were: |
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Click here to view a list of past award recipients.
The Michigan Museums Association is supported in part by an award from the Michigan Arts and Culture Council.
Thank you to our Partners!
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