“Rubber Chicken of Excellence Award”

MRCG History of the Rubber Chicken of Excellence Award

The “Rubber Chicken of Excellence Award” is a lighthearted, rolling tradition given by the Midwest Regional Conservation Guild (MRCG) to honor long-standing service, dedicated leadership, or professional longevity within the guild and the field of heritage conservation. The recipient is required to keep it for a minimum of two years, display it proudly in their office or laboratory, before passing it along to the next guild member. In 2018, Tom Edmonson noticed the rubber chicken was placed into a case with an archival mat and UV-protective glazing to slow down its deterioration.

Below is a list of recipients:

2026 - 2028 - Allison Slenker, MRCG Treasurer (2022 - 2026) for dedication and contributions to development of the Annual Symposiums during her term.

2024 - 2026 - Linda Butler, MuseuM Services Corporation for the active support of the MRCG Annual Symposium and dedication to the conservation field

2022 - 2024 - Seth Irwin

2018 - 2020 -

2016 - 2018 -

2017 - 2018 - Cecile Mear accepted the award as she finished her term as the guild’s co-President.

2012 - 2014 - Nancy Heugh received the award to honor her longevity and dedication into the conservation field.

2010 - 2012 - Margaret Contompasis accepted the award for stepping up to serve as the guild’s President.

2008 - 2010 - Tom Edmonson

2006 - 2008 - Richard McCoy received the award to honor his serving as Secretary - Treasurer for four years of the guild.