How does ISAS vision relate to the role of the Illinois State Museum (ISM) and the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency (IHPA)?
IHPA acts primarily as a regulatory body enforcing state and federal archaeological and burial laws. The ISM plays a major role in interpreting Illinois’ cultural history through its exhibits and public education programs. Both IHPA and ISM manage archaeological sites that are open to the public. Though ISAS has no regulatory function, it does share IHPA and ISM missions to educate Illinois’ citizens about the State’s past. ISAS possesses the unique ability to conduct long-term and large-scale archaeological research within the State and is especially well-situated to promote the preservation of archaeological resources within the context of sustainable economic development. ISAS intends to seek collaborative partnerships with ISM and IHPA that will enhance the public education aspects of their joint missions.
