Maryann Gomes was instrumental in the creation of AMIA's Regional Audio Visual Archives Interest Group and served as its first chairperson. Founding Director of the North West Film Archives at Manchester Metropolitan University in Manchester, England, Ms. Gomes promoted the depth and diversity inherent in regional moving image collections and tirelessly championed their historical research value.

The purpose of the award is to:

1. Increase participation in AMIA by archivists/ librarians/curators who have been financially unable to take advantage of AMIA membership benefits;
2. Provide active learning opportunities and interaction between audio-visual professionals from around the world;
3. Give archivists/librarians/curators the opportunity to add to their professional development in a positive and inclusive atmosphere;
4. Expand AMIAís outreach and foster internationalism.

One award will be offered annually. The award provides up to $1,000.00 U.S. to assist with AMIA conference-related travel expenses. In addition, a complimentary conference registration, and a one-year Individual AMIA membership (total approximate value $1,500.00 U.S.).

Those individuals wishing to contribute to the Maryann Gomes Fund to help support this award are invited to contact AMIA. AMIA is a 501(c)3 public benefit corporation.

Previous Recipients
2010. Karma Foley, Human Studies Film Archives Smithsonian Institution
2009. Alex Cherian, San Francisco Bay Area Television Archive
2008. Sarah Davy
2007. Celia Tisdale, Mississippi Department of Archives and History
2006. Sue Howard, Yorkshire Film Archive
2005. John R. Waggener, American Heritage Center
2004. Gerald Foley, State Film Archives of Western Australia
2003. Mary Huelsbeck, University of Wisconsin ‐ Milwaukee Libraries Archives & Special Collections