CLEVELAND, OH—The Cleveland Museum of Natural History is proud to announce that it has been named the 2024 Institution of the Year by the Ohio Museums Association (OMA). This prestigious award recognizes outstanding institutional accomplishments in the field of Ohio museums and highlights organizations that serve as models of excellence and best practices in the industry.
The OMA’s Institution of the Year award is presented annually to an organization that has demonstrated exemplary achievements in museum leadership, community engagement, innovative programming, and institutional impact. To qualify for the award, an institution must be a member of the Ohio Museums Association and exhibit a significant commitment to advancing the museum field.
“Our $150 million transformation is an unprecedented reinvention that presents a new model for natural history museums around the world,” said Sonia Winner, President & CEO of the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. “As we share the story of life in a bold new way, we are thrilled to be recognized for our innovative approach, which places visitors at the center of the experience and inspires people to be a voice for the planet.”
Since its highly anticipated Grand Opening in December 2024, the Museum has welcomed more than 100,000 visitors to its state-of-the-art galleries, which feature brand-new exhibits and immersive experiences. The building’s stunning architecture, designed by DLR Group, was inspired by the geological history of Northeast Ohio. Recently, the Museum earned the prestigious distinction of being the first U.S. museum to achieve LEEDv4 BD+C NC Platinum certification—the highest honor in sustainable building design.
In addition to fostering a deeper understanding of science and nature, the Museum’s reinvention directly translates into economic benefits for Ohio. “Our Museum has a meaningful impact on our region’s economy, contributing $40 million each year through operations, visitors, education, and science activities,” said Winner. “We are proud to make a difference in our state, enhancing its economic vitality while enriching its cultural and creative landscape.”
Joining fellow institutions and professionals to celebrate excellence in Ohio’s museum community, the Museum formally accepted the award on March 30, 2025, at the OMA’s annual conference, Innovation: Museums and Reaching Our Potential.
About the Cleveland Museum of Natural History
The Cleveland Museum of Natural History illuminates the world around us and inspires visitors to engage with the natural forces that shape their lives. Since its founding in 1920, the Museum has pioneered scientific research to advance knowledge across diverse fields of study and used its outstanding collections, which encompass millions of artifacts and specimens, to deepen the public’s understanding of the dynamic connections between humans and nature. Through its Natural Areas Program, the Museum stewards more than 12,500 acres of protected ecosystems across northern Ohio. A community gathering place, educational center, and research institution, the Museum is a vital resource that serves Cleveland and the nation. For more information, visit CMNH.org.
Media Contacts:
Samantha Guenther
External Communications Manager, Marketing & Communications
Cleveland Museum of Natural History
Office: 216.231.4600 x3432
Mobile: 440.429.2902
sguenther@cmnh.org
