Two of Georgia Museums, Inc. ’s institutions, Booth Western Art Museum and Tellus Science Museum, were recognized for their contributions to the museum field at the Georgia Association of Museums conference.

The awards highlight their focus on innovation, accessibility, and education. Booth Western Art Museum earned praise for its bilingual digital tour, led by museum educator McKenzie Brick. The tour addresses the needs of the region’s Spanish-speaking community by providing a low-cost, web-based experience. Despite resource challenges, Brick and Erin Zaballa used the Panda Suite platform and Speechify’s AI for narration, ensuring accurate translations with the help of Spanish-speaking staff and community consultants. The free tour features options for low-vision visitors and was tested by local ESOL students for feedback.

Tellus Science Museum’s summer internship program received GAM’s Student Project Award for creating a new Solar System Traveling Trunk program. Designed by interns Renee Dunn and Katherine Underwood, this educational resource supports Georgia’s state science curriculum and offers interactive lessons for various grade levels.

Katherine Underwood expressed excitement about the project, highlighting collaboration with educators. Each lesson kit includes presentations, vocabulary lists, and hands-on activities. The 4th-grade program features a Space Bingo game, while the 6th-grade program includes a Gallery Walk activity. High school students learn about the solar system through a Guess Who game. Renee Dunn enjoyed the experience and felt honored by the award recognition.