A unique display of Arlington Heights’ native Jimmy Garoppolo’s helmet and cleats from his years with the San Francisco 49ers, drew lots of engagement last fall at the Arlington Heights Historical Museum, and now it turns out to be award-winning.
Assistant Curator Jon Gardner prepares the installation at the Arlington Heights Historical Museum.
The exhibit of the Garoppolo equipment — displayed in the Museum’s Gift Shop Case — earned an Award of Merit for Community Partnerships from the Illinois Association of Museums.
This recognition highlights meaningful partnerships that make a significant impact, says Museum Curator Stephanie Lee. She adds that the display was made possible through collaboration with the Garoppolo family, bringing a unique and personal piece of local history to museum visitors.
“The loan came about through the effort of our Assistant Curator Jon Gardner,” Lee says. “Knowing that Jimmy grew up in Arlington Heights, Jon thought it would be fun to display something of his in our Gift Shop case in conjunction with the start of football season. Jon reached out to Jimmy’s management team to begin the conversation and it resulted in the loan.”
Lee adds that highlighting Garoppolo’s helmet and cleats signaled a slightly different direction for the museum, by showcasing more contemporary history.
Jimmy Garoppolo leading the RMHS Mustangs as quarterback. (Photo courtesy of Denise Garoppolo)
“Even for visitors who weren’t familiar with Garoppolo, walking into the museum and seeing a modern football helmet on display immediately sparked questions and a desire to know why that was here,” Lee says.
Garoppolo himself learned of the display from his family and it confirmed his fondness for his hometown of Arlington Heights and all of the relationships he continues to cherish.
“To my hometown, thank you for the roots, the friendships and countless memories,” Garoppolo says. “No matter where I go, this place will always be home to me.”
Still, seeing all of the interest in the display — and statewide recognition — taught the museum staff about the importance of forging new community partnerships as they strive to collect and share contemporary history.
“This experience led to us seek out donations related to more recent historical events,” Lee says, “as well as to fill in some of the gaps in the collection that have developed over time.”
Lee and her staff also took great pride in winning an Award of Excellence for Exhibits for People, Parks, and Progress: 100 Years of AHPD.
“This top honor celebrates projects that demonstrate outstanding quality, creativity and effective use of resources while meeting the highest professional standards,” Lee says. “During the awards ceremony, judges specifically praised the exhibit’s engaging storytelling and the strong collaboration between museum staff and the Arlington Heights Park District team.”
The museum also celebrated Rich Lisy, who was honored with the Unsung Hero Award. The annual award recognizes a team member who may not serve in a traditional museum role but is essential to daily operations. Lee says Lisy’s behind-the-scenes contributions, as well as his dedication and willingness to go above and beyond, play a vital role in keeping the museum running smoothly and enhancing the visitor experience.
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