The Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art has been awarded the highest honor a museum can receive: reaccreditation by the American Association of Museums (AAM).

Accreditation certifies that a museum operates according to standards set forth by the museum profession, manages its collections responsibly and provides quality service to the public. Of the nearly 8,500 museums nationwide, only 748 are accredited, and of those, 438 have had their accredited status renewed.

"This seal of approval has real implications for our getting grants and how we are viewed by our profession," said Franklin Robinson, the museum's director. "This process was rigorous and demanding, as we examined virtually every aspect of our museum's operations; a year of self-study and an on- site evaluation by a team of experienced museum professionals was required."

In its report, the accreditation committee said that the Johnson Museum "is distinguished by its superb facility and the breadth and quality of its collection as well as its outstanding achievements in the field."

The committee was impressed with the role the museum plays in educating both the Cornell community and the general public. Among the museum's strong suits were its impressive holdings and its professional staff. The report concluded that the museum would sustain its position of leadership in its field and continue to be a vital source for academic enrichment for the college community and outlying areas.

Accreditation is one of several programs offered by the AAM to help museums achieve standards of quality and professionalism. AAM is a national organization, based in Washington, D.C., that has served the museum profession since 1906.