Michigan museum professionals, volunteers, and supporters gathered at the Grand Rapids Public Museum on May 15 to present the Michigan Museums Association’s (MMA) 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.
“Every year we celebrate the best of Michigan’s museums, and this year was no exception. Our state is blessed with the most creative minds who strive for excellence and equity. I’m so proud of this year’s recipients,” said Caitlyn Perry Dial, MMA Board President.
The three Peninsulas Prize awards support MMA’s mission and professional development goals and objectives by providing visibility for individuals and organizations that strive for excellence and best practice. The first award, Peninsulas Prize for Leadership, recognizes an individual who has provided strong leadership to their colleagues, organization, or the museum community. The second award, Peninsulas Prize for Community Engagement, recognizes a project, program, or process that creates or sustains a sense of inclusion, justice, and/or belonging with underrepresented participants/ groups. The third award, Peninsulas Prize for Advocacy, recognizes an individual’s impactful advocacy efforts that raised awareness, influenced policy, or fostered public and governmental support for Michigan museums.
The Peninsulas Prize for Leadership was presented to Kim Kelderhouse, executive director of the Leelanau Historical Society in Leland. In that role, she has expanded public access to historical resources, fostered community engagement, and ensured the museum’s long-term sustainability. Her leadership has been instrumental in digitizing historical newspapers, curating impactful exhibitions, and strengthening connections within the broader museum community. Her ability to blend historical expertise with forward-thinking strategies has strengthened the Leelanau Historical Society, making it a model for small museums across the state.
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, the museum has created accessible spaces where community members can come together, celebrate, and create lasting memories without financial barriers.
The Peninsulas Prize for Advocacy was awarded to State Representative Will Snyder, who represents Michigan’s 87th House District, for his role in advancing the legislation which established the Community Museum Grant Program. Administered by the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO), this program secured $18 million in funding to support museums and nonprofit foundations across the state, enriching Michigan’s cultural landscape.
