The Lifetime Membership Award recognizes the outstanding contributions of a member, staff, or volunteer to the Great Lakes Museum. This prestigious recognition becomes part of the Museum’s permanent record, with final selection determined by our Board of Directors.

2025: Barbara Carson (second from left) was the first recipient of the Award for her dedication to preserving Great Lakes maritime heritage. A founding member of the Museum in 1975, she and a team of volunteers secured the current site to house artifacts from sunken vessels.

2026: This year’s recipients were Chris West, honoured for his transformative leadership as a Board Director and Vice Chair; Dr. John Plant, recognized for his outstanding service and governance leadership during his time on the Board; and Marjorie Burggraf, celebrated for more than 40 years of volunteer service and support of the Museum’s mission.

How to Submit a Nomination

Nomination forms are available online. The nomination criteria are included on the form.

Eligible nominators include Board Directors, Board Sub-committee Members, Museum Members, Museum Volunteers, and current Museum staff.

A successful candidate and their nominator will be informed of the Board’s decision.

Nomination Criteria

To nominate, you should be a Board Director, Board Sub-committee Member, Museum Member, Museum Volunteer, or a current Museum staff member.

Nominees should be individuals who have:

• A significant period of service contributing to the success of the organization
• Made a substantial financial and/or in-kind contribution
• Lead short and/or long-term efforts to properly position the Museum to meet and overcome challenges and changing business environments
• Gone above and beyond to support the development of the Museum
• Driven change
• Fostered the growth and development of the organization
• Demonstrated selflessness and resilience
• Crusaded for the achievement of the Museum’s Mission
• Represented the Museum with distinction

For any questions, please contact our Communications Coordinator at communications@marmusum.ca.