The CMA is one of 15 museums from around the nation to be selected for the nation’s highest honor recognizing community contributions and impact for museums and libraries
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The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) announced that the Columbia Museum of Art (CMA) is among the 30 finalists for the 2016 National Medal for Museum and Library Service. The National Medal is the nation’s highest honor given to museums and libraries for service to the community. The CMA celebrates our community partner, Richland Library, as they also were chosen as a finalist for this award, making Columbia the only city in the nation to have both a museum and a library receive this prestigious honor in 2016.
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“Our recognition as a national award finalist is a testament to the community’s belief in the value of our work and to the generosity and spirit of the Midlands,” says CMA Executive Director Karen Brosius. “Here at the CMA, we embrace our role as a modern museum in fostering meaningful conversations within the community we serve and connecting with each other through our shared humanity. We believe that together, as one Columbia, we amplify and advocate best by collaborating with community partners (including Richland Library) to improve the quality of life for all in our region. We are most thankful for the steadfast support of Columbia City Council, Richland County Council, and each of our donors, volunteers, and visitors, whose involvement and support make all of our work possible.”
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The CMA’s award nomination was supported by national and local leaders alike including:
- Congressman James E. Clyburn
- Congressman Joe Wilson
- Congressman Mick Mulvaney
- Senator Lindsey Graham
- Senator Tim Scott
- Mayor Stephen K. Benjamin
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For 22 years, the award has celebrated institutions that demonstrate extraordinary and innovative approaches to public service and are making a difference for individuals, families, and communities.
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“The 2016 National Medal finalists make lasting differences in their communities by serving and inspiring the public,” says Dr. Kathryn K. Matthew, director of the Institute of Museum and Library Services. “We proudly recognize these museums and libraries for their invaluable work to provide citizens with educational resources, 21st century skills, and opportunities for lifelong learning. As key stewards of our nation’s future, we salute the 30 finalists for their excellence in engaging our citizenry and expanding learning of all kinds.”
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The National Medal winners will be named later this spring, and representatives from winning institutions will travel to Washington, D.C., to be honored at the National Medal award ceremony.
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“The spirit of a city builds from its Main Street, and the continuing success of our downtown corridor would be impossible without the incredible work done at the Columbia Museum of Art,” says Columbia Mayor Steve Benjamin. “Together, we’re building a truly world-class city and I firmly believe that, with the CMA’s continued partnership, we are well on our way to becoming the most talented, educated, and entrepreneurial city in America.”
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Finalists are chosen because of their significant and exceptional contributions to their communities. The CMA offers high-quality educational outreach programs in diverse communities across Richland County and South Carolina. “First Steps with CMA provides dynamic, engaging access to early childhood arts education through a free program for the underserved and at-risk families served by First Steps in Richland County. Together, we are creating environments that encourage all participants and their families to feel comfortable creating art, expressing themselves, and hopefully visiting the museum in person to experience original art time and time again,” says Richland County First Steps CEO Rick Noble. “The CMA’s outreach programming is the bridge that helps to connect those who do not have access to the museum to programs that offer lifelong learning opportunities.”
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IMLS is encouraging community members who enjoy and support the programs of the Columbia Museum of Art to share their stories on the IMLS Facebook page. To
Share Your Story and learn more about how museums and libraries make an impact, please visit
www.facebook.com/USIMLS.
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About the Institute of Museum and Library Services
The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation’s 123,000 libraries and 35,000 museums. Our mission is to inspire libraries and museums to advance innovation, lifelong learning, and cultural and civic engagement. Our grant making, policy development, and research help libraries and museums deliver valuable services that make it possible for communities and individuals to thrive. To learn more, visit www.imls.gov and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.
About the CMA
The Columbia Museum of Art is a charitable nonprofit organization dedicated to lifelong learning and community enrichment for all. Located in the heart of downtown Columbia, SC, CMA ranks among the leading art institutions in the country and is distinguished by its innovative exhibitions and creative educational programs. At the heart of the CMA and its programs is its collection, which encompasses nearly 7,000 works and spans thousands of years of history, representing a range of world cultures. Established in 1950, the CMA now welcomes more than 135,000 visitors annually and is a catalyst for community creativity, engaging people of all ages and backgrounds with a diverse spectrum of programming, from exhibitions and lectures to concerts, Arts & Draughts parties. It is the recipient of a National Art Education Association award for its contributions to arts education and an Elizabeth O’Neill Verner Governor’s Award for the Arts for outstanding contributions to the arts in South Carolina.
