Aurora, IL - The Aurora Regional Fire Museum was honored earlier this week with two prestigious statewide awards from the Illinois Association of Museums during its Annual Awards Ceremony. The museum received the 2026 Small Institution of the Year Award and the 2026 Award of Super Achievement (Exhibits), recognizing its overall impact in the region as well as inspiring curiosity in their youngest visitors.
The 2026 Small Institution of the Year Award recognizes the museum’s leadership, innovation, and community impact. Through strategic direction and a strong commitment to mission-driven work, the organization has reached new heights under the guidance of its executive director, staff, and board. No longer solely a history museum, the Fire Museum has evolved into a regional destination—pairing historical interpretation with dynamic exhibitions, hands-on learning experiences, and impactful fire and life safety outreach.
“The Aurora Regional Fire Museum is an anchor in our city, and their ability to produce large-scale community impact with a small-institution footprint is nothing short of remarkable,” said Bobby Dobroski, owner of DobroSKILLS and a museum partner.
In addition to this top honor, the museum also received the 2026 Award of Super Achievement (Exhibits) for Safety at Play: A Firefighter’s Adventure. The fully reimagined hands-on exhibit, invites children to step into the role of a firefighter through immersive, imaginative play. Anchored by a child-sized fire station and fire engine, the exhibit allows children to experience daily life in the firehouse - cooking meals, putting on gear, driving a fire engine, and safely “putting out” play fires. Since opening November 2025, Safety at Play has quickly become a standout exhibition, engaging families and reinforcing critical fire safety lessons through interactive learning, helping inspire the next generation of firefighters.
“These awards reflect the exceptional work of our staff, whose dedication and creativity bring the museum’s mission to life every day. As a board, we are proud to support a team that continues to elevate the museum’s impact across our community and region,” said Board President Karen Yaggie.
“These awards energize our vision for the future—continuing to evolve, share regional stories, inspire curiosity, and lead in fire safety education,” said Executive Director Brian Failing.
The Aurora Regional Fire Museum preserves the legacy of the fire service by showcasing its regional collections and exhibits while teaching fire safety and prevention. From humble beginnings to the vibrant
institution it is today, the museum remains dedicated to honoring the past, present, and future of the fire service. The Illinois Association of Museums (IAM) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and strengthening museums and cultural institutions throughout Illinois. Through advocacy, professional development, and community building, IAM advances the role of museums as vital contributors to education, economic development, and quality of life.
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For more information about this recognition or how to become involved in the museum, contact Brian Failing, Executive Director, at 630-256-4140 or info@auroraregionalfiremuseum.org.