By Kate Kocienski
Grand Rapids Public Museum
The Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) announced today that six members of the Museum’s staff have received the “Clean Up Warriors Award” from the Michigan Museums Association (MMA). The individuals are being recognized for their efforts in assisting with the cleanup at the Midland Area Historical Societyand the Sandford Centennial Museum this spring after two dams failed the Midland area, causing the museums to flood.
Those being recognized include:
Stevie Hornyak, GRPM Exhibits Specialist
Sarah Humes, GRPM Associate Registrar
Kelsey Laymon, GRPM Curatorial Assistant
Monica Taylor, GRPM Curatorial Assistant and Photographer
Jake Van Wyk, GRPM Collections Technician
Holly Waldenmeyer, GRPM Registrar and Collections Manager
“Congratulations to the team members of the GRPM staff for receiving this recognition for their efforts,” said Dale Robertson, President and CEO of the GRPM. “This work, all voluntary, was done under very difficult circumstances, in the midst of a pandemic. Their dedication to our community, state and museums does not go unnoticed.”
“It was an incredible opportunity to use our knowledge and skills to help the Midland Area Historical Society and the Sanford Centennial Museum, when the flooding and the COVID-19 pandemic were causing mass devastation. Our team joined forces with their staff to care for and save as many artifacts and records as possible.” said Sarah Humes, Associate Registrar at the GRPM. “On behalf of all of us from the GRPM that are receiving the Clean Up Warriors Award, we want to thank MMA for this recognition.”
Every year, the Michigan Museums Association presents awards members for exceptional programs, exhibits and individuals that made an impact during the year. 2020 has been challenging on many fronts, and this year the MMA will celebrate its members, individuals and institutions that supported, adapted, and innovated throughout the year.
A celebration led by the MMA of all 2020 award winners will take place via Zoom on Thursday, November 19 at 3 p.m. The celebration is open to the public; registration required. A full list of awards can be found here: http://michiganmuseums.org/2020-Awards/.
