The Humboldt and District Museum and Gallery collected accolades for its dedication, work and programming from its provincial organization. The Museums Association of Saskatchewan has launched a Stickers of Excellence initiative, an annual opportunity to celebrate the work of its member museums and to encourage tourism and community pride.
Humboldt and District Museum has been earmarked for multiple stickers of recognition based on evaluation guided by the Standards for Saskatchewan Museums, Sixth Edition. The Humboldt Museum received recognition for all three pillars under consideration: Governance and Management, Collections, and Communications. They also received recognition for their ongoing work with Reconciliation and IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity Equity and Access).
“The initiative came about as an opportunity to recognize all the good work,” says Emma Morris, executive director of Museums Association of Saskatchewan. “As the Association, we are aware of all the incredible work that museums in Saskatchewan are doing. However, in some cases, people in those communities, especially those within government, aren’t aware of this incredible work. Sometimes, you’re not as aware of what’s happening in your own back yard as someone coming in from out of town.”
Morris says she and MAS are aware of the significant work that’s been done to support Reconciliation.
“We’re pleased to see that they are a shining example of that work throughout the province,” Morris noted.
The Humboldt and District Museum, in tandem with the Gallery, provides consistently strong exhibits, displays and workshops throughout the year. It works a variety of agencies, notably the Organization of Saskatchewan Arts Councils, the Office of the Treaty Commissioner, and the Saskatchewan Archeological Society. Along with the volunteer organization Friends of the Museum, the agency has made strides in cultural programming that incorporates the Original Humboldt Site, its public art displays, and a rotating slate of community engagement activities for young and old.
Outdoor concerts in the summer and fun-filled trivia nights at the Museum are just a sample of the community programming. Along with its extensive collection of historical artifacts, including the expansive collection of Humboldt Broncos mementos sent from around the world, the Museum houses a stunning collection.
“We were very excited and very honoured to be part of this program,” said Musuem Director and Director of Cultural Services Jennifer Fitzpatrick. “My staff is very humble. They’re doing fantastic work, and there are so many community members that help us. We found that we were able to demonstrate that work in all of the categories.”
The recognition serves as thanks to the staff and volunteers for all their contributions to make the collection and the programming possible.
Fitzpatrick congratulated the other museum recipients for their commitment to excellence. Those agencies include Assiniboia and District Museum, Biggar Museum and Gallery, Indian Head Museum, Souris Valley Museum, and all locations of the Western Development Museum.
Having achieved an evaluation that results in a full sticker designation, the Humboldt District Museum and Gallery will display the designation of honour on the entrances to the facilities.