MINUTES OF THE APRIL 30, 2012, MEETING

OF THE BOARD OF REGENTS

ATTENDANCE

This scheduled meeting of the Board of Regents was held on Monday, April 30, 2012. The Board

conducted morning, afternoon, and executive sessions in the Regents’ Room in the Smithsonian

Castle Building. Board Chair France Córdova called the meeting to order at 8:30 a.m. Also present

were: 

The Chief Justice 1

Xavier Becerra

Stephen M. Case

Shirley Ann Jackson

Sam Johnson

Robert P. Kogod

Patrick J. Leahy

John W. McCarter Jr.

Roger W. Sant

Alan G. Spoon 2

Patricia Q. Stonesifer

Paul Neely, Smithsonian National Board Chair

Vice President Joseph R. Biden Jr., Senator Thad Cochran, Senator Jack Reed, Representative Steven

LaTourette, and David Rubenstein were unable to attend the meeting. 

Also present were:

G. Wayne Clough, Secretary

Patricia L. Bartlett, Chief of Staff to the Secretary

Claudine K. Brown, Assistant Secretary for

Education and Access

Amy Chen, Chief Investment Officer

Virginia B. Clark, Director of Advancement and

Philanthropic Giving

Scott S. Dahl, Inspector General

Bruce Dauer, Director of the Office of Planning,

Management, and Budget

Barbara Feininger, Office of the Regents Senior

Writer-Editor (recorder)

Albert Horvath, Under Secretary for Finance and

Administration/Chief Financial Officer

Richard Kurin, Under Secretary for History, Art,

and Culture

John K. Lapiana, Chief of Staff to the Regents

Judith Leonard, General Counsel

Evelyn S. Lieberman, Director of Communications

and External Affairs

Christopher Liedel, President of Smithsonian

Enterprises

Nell Payne, Director of Government Relations

Eva J. Pell, Under Secretary for Science

Jeffrey P. Minear, Counselor to the Chief Justice

Danielle Borrin, Assistant to the Vice President

T.A. Hawks, Assistant to Senator Cochran

Kevin McDonald, Assistant to Senator Leahy

Moira Lenehan-Razzuri, Assistant to Senator Reed

Grisella Martinez, Assistant to Congressman Becerra

David Heil, Assistant to Congressman Johnson

Hilary Fulp, Assistant to Congressman LaTourette

Charles Alcock, Director of the Smithsonian 

Astrophysical Observatory 3

Eldredge Bermingham, Director of the

Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute 3

1 The Chancellor, Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr., participated in the afternoon session.

2 Alan Spoon participated in the morning session and was present for the recognition of his service after the Regents’ luncheon.

3 Drs. Alcock and Bermingham gave special presentations to the Board of Regents.
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MORNING SESSION

REPORT OF THE BOARD AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE CHAIR

Introductory Remarks Dr. Córdova welcomed the attendees. Noting that this was her first meeting as Board 

Chair, she thanked the Chancellor, Board Vice Chair Patricia Stonesifer, Executive 

Committee member Shirley Ann Jackson, and Secretary Clough for their support in 

the preparations for this meeting. She also thanked the Regents for their 

participation in the previous evening’s dinner and tour of the facilities in the campus 

master planning initiative. 

Seriously Amazing: 

Titanoboa

Dr. Córdova reminded the Board of the new Smithsonian tagline, “Seriously Amazing,” 

and said that each meeting going forward will include a presentation on a “seriously 

amazing” program or object. In that regard, she invited Under Secretary Richard 

Kurin, Under Secretary Eva Pell, and Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI) 

Director Eldredge Bermingham to discuss Titanoboa, an enormous snake that lived 

some 58 million years ago in what is now northern Colombia. STRI researchers 

identified the fossilized remains of a 48-foot-long Titanoboa in a Cerrejón coal mine. 

The mine is one of the world’s largest open-pit coal mines and the site of possibly the 

most important fossil record of the entire ancient tropical ecosystem that existed 

after the mass extinction of dinosaurs. The Regents viewed a clip of a Smithsonian 

Channel program on the giant serpent.

Review of Meeting Agenda Before discussing the meeting agenda, Dr. Córdova welcomed Chris Liedel, the new 

president of Smithsonian Enterprises. She then highlighted the major goals and 

actions for the meeting: Assistant Secretary Claudine Brown’s report on the 

development of a pan-institutional education and access strategy; executive session 

discussions on Regent succession planning for the vacancy that will be created when 

Alan Spoon completes his final Board term in May 2012; and the Smithsonian’s 

response to congressional inquiries about the Smithsonian Journeys Cuba travel 

program. She noted that the itinerary for the first trip to Cuba had been modified.

Executive Committee 

Report

Dr. Córdova updated the Board on the Executive Committee’s review of Secretary and 

Anne Clough’s Smithsonian-related travel expenses incurred since July 2008, records 

of which had been requested by Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA). She reported that 

General Counsel Judith Leonard and her staff reviewed the records and discussed 

their observations with the Executive Committee, which agreed that the findings 

reflect the Secretary’s prudent stewardship of Smithsonian resources.

She also highlighted two significant Smithsonian events that occurred since the 

January 2012 Board meeting: the groundbreaking for the National Museum of African 

American History and Culture and the arrival of the space shuttle Discovery at the 

National Air and Space Museum’s Udvar-Hazy Center.

January 23, 2012, Board

Meeting Minutes

The minutes of the January 23, 2012, meeting of the Board of Regents were approved

without comment or revision.
3

See attached Action 2012.04.01 (Minutes of the Board of Regents, Appendix A).

REPORT OF THE SECRETARY

Secretary Clough thanked the Regents and staff for their contributions to the many 

seminal events that recently occurred at the Smithsonian. He likened the Titanoboa 

project to the “Jefferson Bible” exhibition: both reflect the best of Smithsonian 

scholarship and research. He said that the arrival of the Discovery was seriously 

amazing, as also was the realization that its condition reflects the 148,221,675 miles it 

flew in space. He said that Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory Director Charles 

Alcock would speak over lunch about the incredible opportunities the Giant Magellan 

Telescope project will offer, as well as the financial challenges it faces. The Secretary

also commented on the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden’s ability to “bring 

the museum out” with its successful video installation Doug Aitken: Song 1. The 

Smithsonian American Art Museum exhibition The Art of Video Games has attracted 

over 200,000 visitors to date and will travel to 10 other sites.

Smithsonian National Board The Smithsonian National Board met in Panama after the January 2012 Regents’ 

meeting, as well as in D.C. over the past weekend. National Board members, said 

Secretary Clough, are making tremendous contributions to the national campaign. In 

addition to funding, members are hosting numerous events to engage Smithsonian 

leaders with potential supporters in their home cities. The Friends of the Smithsonian 

also had a recent successful meeting.

Visitation, the Fiscal Year 

2011 Audit, and the Fiscal 

Year 2012 Federal Budget

The Secretary reported that Smithsonian visitation has rebounded and could exceed 

last year’s numbers. Over 30 million people have visited Smithsonian museums and 

research centers this calendar year, and digital outreach continues to expand.

Secretary Clough said that outcome of the fiscal year 2011 audit was good. With 

regard to the fiscal year 2013 Federal budget, the Smithsonian received solid support 

from the Office of Management and Budget, which recommended a 5.8 percent 

increase above the fiscal year 2012 appropriation. The total request of $857 million 

includes funding for the construction of the National Museum of African American 

History and Culture, as well as personnel increases for that museum. The Secretary’s 

budget hearing on the Hill was well-received. He said the Smithsonian’s position is 

good but that the next 12 months will be very challenging.

Funding The Smithsonian has raised $123 million this year, and hopes to reach its $200 million 

fundraising goal for 2012. Although the national campaign is still in its quiet phase, 

fundraising is ahead of schedule and 33 percent of the internal working goal has been 

reached. The Secretary reported that the nation’s leading independent charity 

evaluator, Charity Navigator, awarded the Smithsonian its highest rating in 

recognition of the Smithsonian’s governance, transparency, management, and 

fundraising efficiency. On March 30, 2012, the Endowment stood at about 

$1.06 billion. 

Revenue from grant and contract activities is on pace to double before the fiscal year 

2015 target. Under the direction of Under Secretary Horvath, the Smithsonian is 
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developing a new strategy for how it conducts grant and contract activities. The 

Secretary said the strategy will be implemented as quickly as possible. Smithsonian 

Enterprises is in good shape and reports increases in subscriptions to the Smithsonian 

Channel. Redesign processes for goal-setting and budget development are in 

operation for fiscal year 2012 goal reports. 

Activities and Events The Secretary reported that Under Secretary Kurin has pursued a memo of 

understanding (MOU) with the Department of State that will support the 

Smithsonian’s activities across the globe. A member of the State Department senior 

staff has been detailed to the Smithsonian.

The Consortia and the Club of Rome cohosted the symposium “Perspectives on Limits 

to Growth: Challenges to Building a Sustainable Planet” on March 1, 2012. The 

symposium was first held in 1972, and a subsequent symposium was held in 1982. 

Many of the original participants were in attendance.

Secretary Clough said that almost 200,000 children have attended the Math Alive

exhibition in the Ripley Center. He expressed his wish for similar activities at the Arts 

and Industries Building when it reopens.

The Smithsonian has worked with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office on the 

development of the exhibition The Patents and Trademarks of Steve Jobs: Art and 

Technology that Changed the World, which will open on May 11, 2012. In conjunction 

with the exhibition, the Secretary will interview Walter Isaacson, the author of the 

biography Steve Jobs, on June 6. Mr. Case later suggested that the Smithsonian 

aggressively expand its efforts to recognize the achievements and legacy of Mr. Jobs.

Consortia activities are going well. About $3 million of the $10 million Gates 

Foundation grant has been awarded through a competitive process. Consortiasupported projects have submitted 51 proposals to date, of which 14 have been 

funded.

Noting that Assistant Secretary Brown would present a more comprehensive report, 

the Secretary noted the progress that has been made in the Smithsonian’s education 

and access initiatives. He commented on a $25 million Department of Education 

project to support the Smithsonian’s ability to deliver STEM education to Houston 

school districts where over 80 percent of the students are under the poverty line. The 

Smithsonian is also engaging corporate partners in this effort.

Infrastructure and People The Secretary updated the Board on changes in the Smithsonian’s senior leadership. 

In addition to new Smithsonian Enterprises (SE) President Chris Liedel, SE welcomed 

Michael Caruso as Editor-in-Chief of Smithsonian magazine. Deron Burba was named 

Chief Information Officer. His efforts, said the Secretary, will focus largely on

improving IT infrastructure.

He reported on several search processes that are under way. The Secretary said that 

he will soon announce the selection of the next National Museum of American History 

director. The search for the next director of the National Museum of Natural History 

(NMNH) is in full gear. Under Secretary Pell’s goal is to have a new director in place 
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before current NMNH director Cristián Samper leaves in August 2012.

The search to replace Office of Facilities Engineering and Operations Director Bruce 

Kendal is down to three candidates. The Secretary said that National Science 

Resources Center Director Sally Shuler also has announced her retirement.

Major Smithsonian construction projects are all on or under budget, and most are on 

schedule. With regard to collections care, the Secretary reported that a MOU had 

been signed with the National Park Service (NPS) to provide for the care and 

management of NPS collections. Deputy Under Secretary for Collections and 

Interdisciplinary Support Scott Miller will report on a survey of existing Smithsonian 

collections at the June 2012 Board meeting.

Branding Update The Secretary invited Director of Communications and External Affairs Evelyn 

Lieberman to provide an update on the branding initiative. Mrs. Lieberman reported 

on recent communications with Target, which is sponsoring the brand advertising 

campaign. The advertising campaign, which will be slightly modified, is on track for a 

mid-to-late September 2012 launch. It will run for about four to six weeks.

Intensive internal branding efforts continue. To date, Pherabe Kolb, who is managing 

the branding project, has made 54 presentations around the Smithsonian and Mrs. 

Lieberman has met with 13 advisory boards. Workshops and training are under way 

and a branding style guide will be issued soon.

Target announced that it again engaged brand consultants Wolff Olins to work on the 

brand advertising campaign. The firm, which prepared the Smithsonian brand 

strategy, will develop and implement the brand’s advertising concepts. The budget 

for the project is under development. Wolff Olins will present two creative concepts 

to the Smithsonian on May 23, 2012. Noting that the advertising production schedule 

is tight, Mrs. Lieberman strongly encouraged the Regents and senior staff to attend 

the presentation and provide input on the concepts. The final concept will be 

presented to focus groups and tested before and after the advertising campaign.

It is anticipated that the campaign’s media plan will be presented to the Board at its 

June 2012 meeting. The plan will include outdoor, digital, and print media. The

campaign’s target audience of “Aware Millennials” has been expanded to include 

“Aware Moms.”

Other branding activities will include the development of a microsite. The microsite 

will highlight “Seriously Amazing” stories, as well as direct viewers to other 

Smithsonian sites. Smithsonian-specific branded programming will be developed with 

the support of Smithsonian Enterprises President Chris Liedel. The programming 

would draw from uniquely Smithsonian assets. Some existing programs may be 

repurposed to support the fall advertising launch. In addition, a new introductory 

video about the Smithsonian will incorporate branding messages. 

Mrs. Lieberman expressed her excitement about the brand advertising campaign. She 

also noted that efforts are under way to identify sources that could support a longer
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rollout of the advertising campaign. Mr. Spoon noted his enthusiasm for the digital 

microsite, which he called a “digital visitor center.” 

STRATEGIC PLAN: EDUCATION STRATEGIC PROJECTS

Overview of Major Effort 

Areas in Smithsonian 

Education

Dr. Córdova said Assistant Secretary for Education and Access Claudine Brown, who 

has overseen efforts to identify and strengthen pan-institutional education and digital

outreach initiatives over the past year, would present three major education projects 

to the Board. She asked Secretary Clough to provide an overview of the initiative.

The Secretary reported on a recent retreat, during which Smithsonian educators 

discussed education and access projects currently under way, as well as worked on 

the development of a focus and framework for Smithsonian education efforts going 

forward. The framework includes three major effort areas: (1) exhibitions, programs, 

and informal learning centers, (2) supplemental K–12 offerings and formal learning 

settings, and (3) open digital access, known as the “21st Museum,” that is available 

anytime and anywhere. Secretary Clough said the boundaries between the three 

areas of focus are flexible and noted that a fourth area, higher education, would be 

discussed at a later time.

Exhibitions, Programs, and 

Informal Learning Centers

“Exhibitions, programs, and informal learning centers” include the Smithsonian’s wellknown assets, such as its museums and centers, collections, and research. Federal 

and private funding support these resources. The age demographic of visitors is wide, 

and includes families and students. New trends in this focus area include the 

development of digital offerings, such as the National Museum of Natural History’s 

Oceans portal, that complement physical exhibitions.

Supplemental K–12 

Offerings and Formal 

Learning Settings

“Supplemental K–12 offerings and formal learning settings” reflect the expectation 

that all Smithsonian programs demonstrate a commitment to inspiring students and 

educators through broad educational offerings. Directed to teachers, school districts, 

and home-schooling communities, these programs are built around teachers’ and 

students’ needs; are age- and curriculum-based; are driven by state and national 

education standards; and are delivered through a variety of physical and digital 

means. The Secretary noted this is a very competitive area. Funding sources include 

Federal monies, private gifts, and grants, including the Gates Youth Access Grants. 

New trends include changing educational standards and new digital learning 

opportunities that can target products and support the development of active 

learners. The Secretary cited the National Museum of American History’s online 

“History Explorer” portal as a successful example of broadening education and access 

through online educational resources.

Open Digital Access: The 

21st Museum

“The 21st Museum” offers open digital access to anyone, at any time, in any place. 

New and evolving opportunities provide tremendous potential to this relatively new 

area. The Smithsonian’s assets include the Smithsonian Channel, web-based 

materials, digitized collections (although only 13 percent of the collections are 

digitized at this time), and Gates Youth Access Grants. This area, said the Secretary, 

needs more funding, stronger information technology expertise, and more education 

generalists with pan-institutional perspectives. Change trends reflect the widespread 
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use of cell phones and iPhone and iPad apps, as well as new generations of digital 

natives. 

Secretary Clough said that three strategic education and access projects are under 

development that will draw from, as well as support, the three focus areas. He 

invited Ms. Brown to discuss the three projects.

Overview of Three Strategic 

Education and Access 

Projects

The three strategic education projects are AMERICANS ALL, WATERWAYS, and My-SI. 

The goal of the projects, said Ms. Brown, is to make the Smithsonian’s content easily 

accessible and readily available to learners everywhere, at any time. Noting that the 

Smithsonian develops specialized research on an ongoing basis, she said the

Smithsonian has the ability to make important information commonplace knowledge 

by sharing it with the world—and making the strategic plan a “living document.” 

Another goal of these projects is to learn from audiences. Learners are interested in 

becoming active participants who can share their own knowledge and stories, and 

become part of a common, larger narrative. 

Ms. Brown introduced Peter Haydock, former vice president of curriculum and 

professional development for the National Geographic Society’s JASON Project and a 

new member of her staff. Mr. Haydock developed a prototype My-SI online 

participant access system, which was projected to introduce the two other strategic 

education projects. 

AMERICANS ALL Ms. Brown explained that AMERICANS ALL and WATERWAYS are both based on 

Smithsonian Consortia projects. AMERICANS ALL, she said, addresses the Grand 

Challenge “Understanding the American Experience” by focusing on migration and 

immigration in this country. Using existing Smithsonian assets, the project will 

identify and tag current and prior Smithsonian exhibitions, programs, collections, and 

other resources that relate to this specific subject area. Using the My-SI prototype, 

Mr. Haydock demonstrated how users will navigate the project’s resources. He 

highlighted the “Share your Experience” function, which allows users to record and 

upload information about personal immigration and/or migration experiences. Users 

can develop and update personal web pages, and share in the larger AMERICANS ALL

portfolio. One of the assets of the “Share your Experience” function is that it allows 

learners to engage with Smithsonian exhibitions and programs before they are 

finalized.

WATERWAYS WATERWAYS addresses the Grand Challenge “Understanding and Sustaining a 

Biodiverse Planet.” Developed by the Anacostia Community Museum, the Consortia 

project is an urban waterways initiative designed to encourage public stewardship of 

the Anacostia River. Hawaiian rivers are now included in the project. Protecting the 

world’s waterways, said Ms. Brown, is an urgent, compelling issue: half of the world’s 

waterways are seriously compromised; half of the world’s population lives near a 

body of water; and two-thirds of the world’s population will experience water 

shortages by the year 2025. The WATERWAYS project will develop new resources and 

use existing assets in the Smithsonian’s collections, research, exhibitions, and 

programs, such as Smithsonian Journeys’ waterway-themed trips. The project will 

support robust citizen science initiatives, such as the Smithsonian Environmental 

Research Center’s distance-learning program, that collect, share, and compare data 
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from across the world. 

My-SI Ms. Brown said that AMERICANS ALL and WATERWAYS are exciting, timely projects 

that will draw from existing Smithsonian resources and support the participation of 

citizen scientists and other learners in issues of global significance. My-SI, she said, 

will deliver these projects in compelling, personalized ways, by inviting users to 

engage more deeply with the Smithsonian. The online participant access system will 

provide a single point of access to all Smithsonian educational programs and 

resources, and support the creation of communities of learners. The registrationbased system includes numerous resources and capabilities, such as lesson plan and 

survey creators, search and tagging functions, a multiplatform data-gathering system, 

and a registration center for education programs. It also will integrate with existing 

Smithsonian websites, databases, and external data sets. Mr. Haydock demonstrated 

the system’s functions and capabilities.

Discussion The Regents were positive about the AMERICANS ALL, WATERWAYS, and My-SI

projects. Mr. McCarter commented on the importance of the WATERWAYS project, 

noting its ability to cross state and national boundaries, as well as encourage citizen 

science. Mr. Spoon commented on the partnership possibilities of the AMERICANS 

ALL project. The Secretary said the Smithsonian can “amplify” the relationships it 

currently has with external organizations, such as ethnic media organizations, as well 

as develop new relationships.

Mr. Case acknowledged the important role of business partners with similar interests, 

goals, and resources. He suggested exploring enterprise-based strategies to help 

ramp up digital outreach activities, increase collaboration, secure more strategic 

partnerships, and help the Smithsonian become more of a platform organization. 

Mr. Kogod commented on the current explosion of information and interconnectivity, 

and their important role in the Smithsonian’s future. He said a business plan should 

be developed to help Smithsonian education fully benefit from these opportunities.

Ms. Stonesifer said she was excited about the presentation’s targets but believed that 

an overall plan still needs to be developed. She said the Smithsonian is uniquely 

positioned to be a central authority in significant content areas. She said, however, 

that other organizations may challenge the Smithsonian’s role if the implementation 

of these projects is not accelerated. Applying the “Seriously Amazing” standard to 

these projects, she said, will give them greater visibility and traction, reinforce the 

Smithsonian brand, and encourage bold partnerships.

Ms. Brown reported that the AMERICANS ALL and WATERWAYS projects have 

attracted the interest of corporate donors who want to be associated with the 

projects’ values. Ms. Stonesifer said that corporate donors also value audience 

numbers, and that strong numbers are needed to uphold the Smithsonian’s standard 

of ownership. Ms. Brown said that, in addition to funding, such sponsors typically 

offer technical support.

Mr. Spoon acknowledged that the education strategy—learning for all, anywhere, at 

any time—may present risks but said he would welcome such risks in the educational 
9

sphere. This is an opportunity, he said, for the Smithsonian to adopt a platform of 

openness and allow others to strategically use Smithsonian content and show new 

ways it can be used.

Dr. Córdova noted the Board’s enthusiasm, and said it must give Ms. Brown further 

direction. She asked Ms. Brown to develop a plan that reflects the strategic plan, 

articulates the vision and purpose of this effort, presents specific goals and outcomes, 

outlines steps to achieve them, and establishes metrics to measure these efforts. The 

desired outcome, said Senator Leahy, is to make the Smithsonian the “go-to” 

destination, both physically and virtually. Mr. Sant added that one of the overarching 

goals is to develop more informed populations.

Ms. Stonesifer expressed her opinion that some of the goals and outcomes were too 

modest. It is urgent, said Mr. Spoon, to find ways to turn this initiative into a viral 

opportunity that reaches tens of millions of people. He suggested using Smithsonian 

Enterprises as a platform. 

Mr. Case said that the broader issue is the core tension between making incremental 

changes to the delivery of content on important topics versus establishing a broader 

platform on important topics in partnership with like-minded organizations. The 

Smithsonian must find a way to become comfortable with letting go if it is to be 

relevant in the future and remain a significant, trusted brand.

DIRECTOR’S REPORT: SMITHSONIAN TROPICAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE 

Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI) Director Eldredge “Biff” Bermingham 

thanked the Board for the opportunity to discuss STRI’s mission, achievements, 

aspirations, and challenges. He noted the many challenges to the world and its 

environment. Stating that STRI is positioned at the intersection of science, 

conservation, policy, education, and commerce, Dr. Bermingham said that STRI is 

unique in its ability to help address issues of global significance.

Basic and Applied Science Dr. Bermingham discussed the roles of basic and applied knowledge. With regard to 

basic science, he said that great discoveries are based on curiosity, intellect, and will. 

He said that great discoveries typically reflect inspired leaps of intellectual creativity

and cited Dr. Alfred Wegener’s 1911 theory of continental drift as an example.

Applied science, which is designed to solve problems, is based on sharing new 

knowledge. Dr. Bermingham noted the contributions of Colonel William Gorgas, a 

member of the Army Medical Corps, to the construction of the Panama Canal. By 

applying his understanding of insects as vectors for disease, Dr. Gorgas created a 

systematic program of mosquito abatement in the Canal Zone. 

New scientific knowledge, said Dr. Bermingham, is typically shared through the 

release of publications and articles that have undergone a rigorous peer-review 

process. STRI’s science and publishing record are impressive: it has published over 

11,000 scientific publications to date. In 2011 alone, STRI recorded 289 publications, 

including 23 articles in high-profile journals such as Science, Nature, and the 

Proceedings of the National Academy of Science.
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History—and Serendipity Serendipity, said Dr. Bermingham, has played a significant role in Panama’s history. It 

is reflected in the formation of the Isthmus of Panama and the biologic diversity that 

resulted; the role of the United States in the area’s development; and the scientific 

contributions of the Smithsonian and STRI. In 1910, Smithsonian Secretary Charles 

Walcott received permission from President William Howard Taft to send a scientific 

expedition to Panama to study the environmental impact of the Panama Canal. At

the request of the Panamanian President, the survey soon was extended to the entire 

Isthmus. Since that time, scientists have engaged in two overarching studies about 

the impact of the joining of the North and South American continents some 3 million 

years ago. The rising landmass divided a continuous tropical sea into what are now 

the Caribbean and Pacific oceans and supported the development of biological 

diversity through biological invasions. Today STRI has nine different research facilities 

in Panama that collectively support research on both oceans and the rainforest that 

lies between the two continents. 

Addressing World 

Challenges through 

STRI Research

Dr. Bermingham spoke of challenges to the future of the world: population growth, 

increased consumption and depletion of natural resources, environmental change, 

and the world economy. He said this is the age of biology, and added that this is in 

fact the age of tropical biology. The transformation of temperate landscapes has 

largely occurred, he said, as well as been studied using North American and European 

research models. Dr. Bermingham said that future landscape transformations will 

occur primarily in tropical zones. If mankind is to survive, he said, it must learn how 

to steward the world’s environments in new, more sophisticated ways. STRI’s work 

directly supports the strategic plan’s grand challenge “Understanding and Sustaining a 

Biodiverse Planet.” 

STRI’s Research Themes Dr. Bermingham discussed STRI’s principal research themes: rainforests, coral reefs, 

earth history, and human interaction with the environment. The distribution of plants 

in the tropics is fundamentally different than what is found in temperate zones: 

Panama hosts 2,321 species of trees, whereas only 1,000 species can be found across 

all of North America. In an effort to better understand biodiversity and sustainability, 

STRI initiated a large-scale tropical forest observation program on Barro Colorado 

Island in 1980. Since that time, the Smithsonian Institution Global Earth 

Observatories (SIGEO) has become the most important study of forest dynamics in 

the world. SIGEO now includes 47 research sites and involves 74 partner institutions 

that use the same research methods to monitor 4.5 million trees, representing 8,500 

species, in 22 countries across the globe. 

STRI’s ability to conduct long-term observations is significant, as well as atypical. 

SIGEO studies of Panamanian and Malaysian rainforests have documented declining 

growth rates, which indicates decreased carbon absorption rates. These findings, 

however, are not paralleled in similar studies conducted at the Smithsonian 

Environmental Research Center, where carbon rates have increased. These results 

and the questions they raise will inform other studies of climate change and how 

biota respond to such change, as well as help scientists determine projected rates of 

change. STRI recently completed LiDAR, a large-scale effort to map all of Panama, and 

will soon generate the first carbon stock model of any country in the world. The data 

from such studies, he said, will be critically important to carbon policy decisions.
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STRI also studies the sponge-like qualities of tropical forests and the effects of 

watershed deforestation. Dr. Bermingham explained the importance of the Panama 

Canal to commercial activities, noting that 5 percent of global commerce is dependent 

upon the Canal, and said the area provides an important opportunity to promote 

ecosystem services. Deforested watersheds around the Canal, he said, pose risks 

both to the infrastructure of Panama and to the global economy. The scientific 

management of such landscapes will support the economy of rainforests, as well as 

the critical ecosystems they sustain. Intelligent landscape management is based on 

reliable, verifiable data. Donor support has allowed STRI to conduct large-scale 

studies of degraded landscapes along the Canal, providing an opportunity to relate 

science to issues of global importance.

Dr. Bermingham said that more research has been conducted on symbioses in tropical 

landscapes than on those in tropical oceans. MarineGEO, he said, is the next big 

initiative. STRI’s position along the Panama Canal, and the oceans it links, supports 

important research on the impact of climate change on coastal zones and the 

disappearance of biodiversity in the world’s oceans. STRI, for example, is studying the 

global decline of coral reefs and the relationship between bacteria and viruses on 

their health. The data from such studies will help predict the future health of the 

oceans.

STRI also supports studies on the impact of humans on the environment and climate. 

Dr. Bermingham spoke of sediment studies from a small Panamanian lake that 

document the historic impact of human activity on regional rainforests. Studies of 

forest growth patterns over time show that humans first crossed the isthmus about 

14,000 years ago. Area rainforests, however, remained largely intact until humans 

settled in the area some 7,000 years ago. The Spanish invasion 500 years ago also is 

reflected in rainforest growth patterns: trees repopulated the landscape when the 

native communities were wiped out. These records, said Dr. Bermingham, reflect 

both the enormous impact of humans on the environment and the amazing resilience 

of ecosystems in general.

Mission and Challenges The mission of STRI and the Smithsonian, said Dr. Bermingham, is to discover new 

knowledge and to share it. Noting that scientists have largely comprised STRI’s 

audiences in the past, he said that STRI is expanding it reach to policy makers, 

corporate sustainability leaders, earth-minded citizens, and middle-school science 

classrooms. STRI has launched a new and reinvigorated web presence to promote 

long-term understanding and stewardship of the environment. It will help connect

what STRI is doing to the relevant issues of this time.

STRI shares its science platform with collaborators around the globe and is committed 

to mentoring the next generation of scientists. Its expertise is world-renowned and, 

for tropical biologists and anthropologists in particular, it is considered a “Mecca”-like 

destination. In 2011, STRI hosted several hundred scientists who collectively 

represented 41 countries and 44 states. It also has 16 university partnerships, 

including the K–12 “Desert to Rainforest” initiative with Arizona State University.

STRI’s overarching challenges, said Dr. Bermingham include (1) connecting new 
12

knowledge to society, (2) connecting funding to science, (3) recruiting and cultivating 

talent, and (4) inspiring next generations. He spoke of STRI’s distance from 

Washington, D.C., and said that the development of its newly established advisory 

board is especially important for STRI. STRI’s advisory board will help better connect 

what STRI does in Panama back to the Regents, the Castle, and the rest of the 

Smithsonian. 

Discussion Responding to Dr. Bermingham’s comment about “earth-minded citizens,” Ms. 

Stonesifer asked how many people STRI aspires to reach. He said that STRI hopes to 

reach some 900 million people through facebook, in addition to using other digital 

and social media platforms.

Mr. Sant said that STRI is at the forefront of putting numbers on the economic 

benefits of forest and land regulation, water purification, and carbon sequestration 

initiatives. Dr. Bermingham said that Panama must dredge the Panama Canal at a 

cost of $60 million dollars each year. Better management of the Canal’s watershed, 

he said, could reduce those costs by at least half, if not two-thirds, as well as help 

prevent water shortages.

Mr. McCarter spoke of artist Maya Lin’s series of installations about deforestation, 

and suggested that a work be created for one of the Smithsonian’s sites on the 

National Mall. Dr. Bermingham noted that Ms. Lin has a residence in Panama City and 

would likely be enthusiastic about the prospect of creating a work for the 

Smithsonian.

Representative Becerra congratulated Dr. Bermingham on his inspiring presentation, 

saying that it “animated” the Board. He said that STRI is unique, and that it is 

uniquely Smithsonian. No other organization, said Mr. Becerra, can “show you this 

aspect of our life the way STRI can.” 

Mr. Case asked what STRI is doing, or should be doing, in biomimicry. Dr. 

Bermingham said the diverse array of organisms in the tropics offers many 

opportunities to learn from nature’s systems and solutions. He also noted that STRI’s 

work in biomimicry is expanding. Mr. Case said the Smithsonian has the opportunity 

to take STRI’s research and apply it to different sectors. Ms. Stonesifer commented 

on the intersection of biomimicry and design, and noted the work of Cooper-Hewitt, 

National Design Museum Director Bill Moggridge. 

Dr. Córdova spoke of other opportunities to expand STRI’s scientific base, such as in 

the health domain. Dr. Bermingham reported that STRI is in the 13th year of an 

initiative funded by the National Institutes of Health and the National Science 

Foundation, the purpose of which is to discover new drugs by utilizing 100 years of 

ecological knowledge about rainforests and coral reefs. To date, 170 new organic 

compounds have been identified. If a novel drug is discovered, said Dr. Bermingham, 

the Smithsonian will receive a portion of the profits.

Dr. Jackson asked how STRI balances the interests of basic science, which is driven by 

researchers’ natural curiosity, with those of applied science, which can help address 

issues of global importance and possibly lead to financial return. Dr. Bermingham 
13

said three tools help balance these interests: succession, endowed positions, and 

partnerships. He expressed his belief that scientists shouldn’t be “retooled,” adding 

that scheduled retirements offer opportunities to reimagine positions. Should an 

immediate need arise, STRI tries to secure funding for an endowed position. 

Partnerships, he said, are one of the most important ways for STRI to maintain a rich 

and diverse research base. Scientists, who are typically funded by the partner 

organizations, are attracted to STRI’s platform, resources, research, and the 

opportunity to work with its renowned group of staff scientists.

QUARTERLY FINANCIAL REPORT

Financial Snapshot Under Secretary for Finance and Administration/Chief Financial Officer Albert Horvath 

presented the fiscal year 2012 financial snapshot for the period ending March 31, 

2012. He characterized the Smithsonian’s fiscal performance during the first six 

months of fiscal year 2012 as solid and stable. Given current economic conditions,

the Smithsonian fared well with regard to fiscal year 2012 Federal appropriations and 

received an essentially flat Federal budget. Included is $75 million in incremental 

funding for the construction of the National Museum of African American History and 

Culture. 

Private revenue sources are performing well. Fundraising is tracking ahead of the 

fiscal year 2012 target of $200 million and new sponsored research awards are 

trending ahead of the $150 million goal. Net gain from Smithsonian Enterprises (SE) 

activities is ahead of plan but reflects slightly softer total revenue. Strong 

Smithsonian Channel performance continues to support the SE bottom line. New SE 

President Liedel has initiated the development of a SE long-range plan.

Fiscal year expenses are slightly ahead of plan but in line with corresponding revenue 

increases. On March 31, 2012, the market value of the Endowment stood at $1.06 

billion with performance slightly ahead of benchmark.

Discussion Ms. Stonesifer expressed concern about Smithsonian Enterprises’ top-line revenues

and requested a future discussion on this issue. Mr. Horvath agreed that addressing 

overall revenue growth will be a critical challenge. He noted that, in addition to the 

appointment of Mr. Liedel, several new key SE hires are now in place. 

Mr. Sant requested that the financial snapshot better reflect mission-enabling costs, 

generally regarded as overhead, and benchmark the Smithsonian’s financial 

operations against best practices. Mr. Horvath said one of his key objectives is to 

develop a better financial reporting system. First steps include developing a 

framework that clarifies how the Smithsonian should view its financial operations. 

Financial systems and processes will then be reengineered to support transparent and 

replicable financial reports. He noted that one of the challenges will be to better 

communicate what the mission-enabling costs are, as well as their purpose. 

Benchmarks will be developed to assure that those activities and expenses are in line 

with peer organizations, as well as to find opportunities to achieve greater 

efficiencies.
14

REPORT OF THE FINANCE COMMITTEE

Fiscal Year 2014 Federal 

Budget Priorities

Finance Committee member Roger Sant discussed the fiscal year 2014 Federal budget 

priorities. If the Office of Management and Budget accepts the Smithsonian’s 

requirements budget, limited increases will be directed to non-discretionary items, 

such as rent and utilities; items that leverage fundraising, such as the construction of 

the National Museum of African American History and Culture; and items for which 

fundraising is unlikely, such as collections care, facilities maintenance and 

revitalization, and IT infrastructure. Mr. Sant commented on the challenges 

presented by the current Federal budget process and, along with the Secretary, 

thanked the congressional Regents for their support. He also praised the budget 

scenario-planning efforts of Smithsonian staff. 

Mr. Sant then presented a motion to approve the fiscal year 2014 Federal budget 

priorities for submission by the Secretary to the Office of Management and Budget. 

The motion was approved.

See attached Action 2012.04.02 (Minutes of the Board of Regents, Appendix A).

Fiscal Year 2013 

Endowment Payout

Mr. Sant said that the current Endowment payout policy is to pay out, on an annual 

basis, 5 percent of the average market value per share over the previous five years, 

plus an additional percentage to fund the advancement of the national campaign. He 

reported that the committee discussed the fact that, over the last five years, the 

Endowment has not achieved a level of return that can sustain over time this payout 

ratio. After due consideration, the committee agreed to recommend approval of, for 

fiscal year 2013, the current payout policy to fund operations, plus up to 1 percent of 

approximately half of the Endowment’s value to support the national campaign. 

A motion to approve the proposed Endowment payout for fiscal year 2013 was then 

approved.

See attached Action 2012.04.03 (Minutes of the Board of Regents, Appendix A).

Mr. Sant noted that the committee is monitoring the possible downgrade of Bank of 

America, and the potential impact on the Smithsonian’s Bank of America backstop to 

the floating rate debt, which will expire at the end of calendar year 2012.

REPORT OF THE INVESTMENT COMMITTEE

Investment Committee Vice Chair Steve Case provided the committee’s report. Mr. 

Case noted that manager selection continues to be the most important contributor to 

the Endowment’s performance. The committee agrees that fundamental shifts in 

portfolio allocations are not desirable but that achieving better allocations in certain 

sectors, such as venture capital, will enhance returns.

The Endowment’s liquidity is strong. Seventy-four percent of the Endowment is 

invested in marketable investments, of which 19 percent could be liquidated within a 
15

day. Just under half of the marketable portfolio could be liquidated within six 

months.

Mr. Case noted the committee’s concern about the Smithsonian’s long-term ability to 

maintain a 5 percent Endowment payout. Building out the portfolio is challenging in a 

volatile market, particularly with regard to making portfolio adjustments that 

maintain reasonable risk protection but increase focus on market sectors with 

stronger upside opportunities. Efforts to move portfolio allocations into opportunistic 

areas are challenged by the fact that high-performing venture funds currently are not 

open to new investors. 

REPORT OF THE ADVANCEMENT COMMITTEE

Advancement Committee Chair Alan Spoon reported that the April 19, 2012, 

committee meeting had been held at the Udvar-Hazy Center following the celebration 

of the transfer of the Space Shuttle Discovery to the collections of the National Air and 

Space Museum. He noted that his report would include a progress report on the 

Smithsonian’s advancement initiatives, an update on the national campaign and 

outline of the work ahead, and proposed gift and sponsorship actions recommended 

by the committee for the Board’s approval.

Fundraising Summary To date, fiscal year 2012 fundraising stands at about $123 million, against the fiscal 

year fundraising goal of $200 million. The national campaign, which is still in its quiet 

phase, is ahead of schedule and is close to crossing the $500 million mark. 

National Campaign Update Mr. Spoon compared the national campaign to a mountain-climbing expedition, 

saying that the Smithsonian is in a good place because the location of the campaign’s 

base camp is high. He also said, however, that that the climb ahead will be more 

challenging. First steps include fueling the current pipeline of significant gifts to 

achieve this year’s $200 million fundraising goal.

Of the campaign gifts received to date, most are directed to programs and 

approximately 28 percent are directed to endowments. The success of the campaign 

will depend on increasing the number of commitments for endowments. The total 

campaign goal includes approximately $400 million to permanently fund about 60 

“significant” Smithsonian positions. 

Achieving the campaign goals will require more “boots on the ground.” The 

Smithsonian must increase the number of unit-based advancement staff; effectively 

engage with unit advisory boards and their advancement committees; and expand the

network of “regional friends.” Mr. Spoon said the campaign steering committee will 

meet with the advisory board chairs, unit directors, and unit advancement committee 

chairs following the May 15, 2012, advisory board chairs’ annual retreat.

The campaign’s success also will depend on a stronger pipeline of “big ideas” and 

matching donor prospects. Mr. Spoon said the Smithsonian culture needs an

expansive mindset that recognizes substantive, game-changing opportunities that can 

be tied to philanthropic possibilities. 
16

Mr. Spoon said the Smithsonian has both the opportunity and the obligation to be 

great. To achieve its aspirational goals, he said, the Smithsonian must increase the 

leveraging power of its philanthropic support and effectively tell the “story” of its

public-private partnership. He said that the Smithsonian’s unique assets and 

demonstrated history of goodwill and commitment offer a “safe investment” for 

donors who want to support issues and initiatives of significant consequence.

Gift and Sponsorship 

Actions

Six proposed gift actions, each of which had been reviewed by the Advancement 

Committee and approved for recommendation to the Board, were presented for the 

Board’s consideration. Mr. Spoon said that each proposed gift agreement adhered to 

applicable Smithsonian directives and the Smithsonian’s guiding principles, policies, 

and procedures. Three of the gift agreements included naming spaces in recognition 

of the donors. The Regents were assured that Smithsonian gift policies and 

procedures uphold the Smithsonian’s control over exhibition and editorial content.

Mr. Spoon highlighted a gift to support the renovation of the paleobiology and 

dinosaur hall at the National Museum of Natural History. The donor, David Koch, 

previously supported the creation of the museum’s Hall of Human Origins. The new 

hall will complete the ground-floor restoration of the museum and advance the “Deep 

Time” initiative outlined in the museum’s strategic plan.

Mr. Becerra noted his appreciation for the generosity of this and other Smithsonian 

donors. He commented that that the American people, who provide significant 

support for the Smithsonian through their taxes, are not similarly recognized. Mr. 

Neely later suggested that the contributions of the American people be recognized in 

some other space, such as the Castle.

Mr. Becerra expressed concern about specific language in the motion, which states 

that public recognition for the donor will remain “for 35 years, or the next 

comprehensive renovation of the space, whichever is longer.” At issue was the 

phrase “whichever is longer.” He asked that Smithsonian policies regarding the 

duration of naming recognitions be reviewed.

The Board agreed to vote en bloc on all six gift actions. [Subsequent to the vote, Mr. 

Becerra asked that the minutes note that his willingness to support an en bloc vote, 

instead six individual votes, was based on the representation by Smithsonian staff 

that the terms of the naming recognition are not atypical of other naming 

recognitions. Dr. Jackson also stated that her vote in favor of the six gift actions was 

predicated on the same understanding.]

With Mr. Becerra abstaining, the six gift actions were approved.

See attached Actions 2012.04.04–2012.04.09 (Minutes of the Board of Regents,

Appendix A).

REPORT OF THE AUDIT AND REVIEW COMMITTEE

Audit and Review Committee Chair John McCarter updated the Board on the 
17

committee’s April 16, 2012, meeting. The committee met with KPMG, the 

Smithsonian’s external auditors, and reviewed the results of the fiscal year 2011 

audit. He reported that the Smithsonian is in good shape. He remarked on two items 

that were not quantified: the contributions of the Smithsonian’s docents and the 

value of the collections. The monetization of both would dramatically increase the 

Smithsonian’s value.

The Smithsonian decided to extend the current agreement with KPMG for one year, 

covering the September 30, 2012, reporting year. It is expected that an RFP will be 

issued in anticipation of the following year’s external audit engagement. Inspector 

General Dahl and Under Secretary for Finance and Administration/Chief Financial 

Officer Horvath negotiated a one-year contract with KPMG at a 7 percent discount 

from this year’s contract. 

The committee received an update from Inspector General Dahl. There are a number 

of issues that remain open from earlier audits by the Office of the Inspector General 

(OIG). Mr. Dahl and Mr. Horvath are developing methods to ensure that the 

Smithsonian moves towards either the rejection of or the rapid implementation of 

OIG recommendations.

Mr. McCarter reported that the Smithsonian’s insurance was updated. He also said 

that internal controls are progressing, and that some issues will be resolved ahead of 

schedule. Internal controls to support the national campaign are being developed as 

rapidly as possible and will be completed before the launch of the campaign. Mr. 

Horvath is developing the next stage of internal controls, which will address 

enterprise risk management. 

REPORT OF THE FACILITIES COMMITTEE

Facilities Committee Chair Robert Kogod provided a brief summary of the 

committee’s March 20, 2012, meeting. The committee received an update on the 

Smithsonian’s facilities capital and maintenance requirements. He reported that the 

Office of Facilities Engineering and Operations (OFEO) is in the process of updating 

the requirements snapshot, which tracks accounts over a 10-year period, to cover 

years 2012 to 2021. The snapshot’s charts illustrate OFEO’s efforts to avert any type 

of crisis or emergency by prioritizing and allocating relatively scarce resources for 

capital and maintenance projects.

The committee discussed proposed changes to the Smithsonian’s special events 

policy, and supported the proposed revisions. Mr. Kogod noted that the Smithsonian 

would not ease its prohibitions against groups that discriminate against legally 

protected classes, political, partisan, religious or civil ceremonies, and events that 

charge admission fees. Pending approval by the Board of Regents during its June 

2012 meeting, a special events pilot program will be launched in summer 2012.

Adjournment and Luncheon 

Presentation on the Giant 

Magellan Telescope Project

The morning session was adjourned at 12:30 p.m. During the Regents’ luncheon, 

Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO) Director Charles Alcock spoke about the 

opportunities and challenges of the Giant Magellan Telescope (GMT) project. The 
18

partnership for the GMT comprises the Smithsonian; Astronomy Australia, Ltd.; the 

Australian National University; the Carnegie Institution for Science; Harvard 

University; the Korea Astronomy and Space Science Institute; Texas A&M University;

the University of Arizona; the University of Chicago; and the University of Texas at 

Austin.

Dr. Alcock outlined the scientific rationale for extremely large telescopes such as the 

GMT, which will have a giant primary mirror that is almost eighty-three feet in 

diameter. SAO astronomers will use the GMT for many groundbreaking 

investigations, the most prominent being the search for evidence of life on planets 

orbiting other stars—one of the most philosophically compelling science 

investigations of this age. Astronomers have become proficient at finding these “exoplanets,” but need the GMT to characterize them and detect “bio-markers.” For this 

purpose SAO scientists have been selected by the project to design and build G-CLEF, 

one of only three “first light” instruments.

The GMT will be located in Chile, where very dark skies and clear, calm air create 

exceptional observing conditions. The local education system, which is capable of

producing many of the technically competent people needed to staff the facility, is an 

asset. Also of note is Chile’s strong political support for astronomy. Collectively,

these features make Chile the ideal location for new, major observatories, as well as 

for the development of useful synergies between telescopes. 

Considerable progress has been made to date: one of seven segments of the primary 

mirror has been completed (with a surface precision that is accurate to less than onethousandth of a human hair); engineers are developing the detailed design; and 

blasting is under way to prepare the construction site. Science operations are 

scheduled to commence in 2021.

Funding represents the greatest challenge to the GMT start date. The construction 

estimate, which will be refined when the detailed design is completed, is $750 million, 

of which $285 million has been raised by the GMT partners. SAO, which has 

contributed $3.5 million to the project, aspires to a 10 percent stake in the GMT. 

Philanthropic support is being actively sought for the GMT—a critical component of

the Smithsonian strategic plan and the Grand Challenge “Understanding the 

Mysteries of the Universe.”
19

AFTERNOON SESSION

The Chancellor called the afternoon session to order at 1:05 p.m.

DESIGNATION OF REGENT EMERITUS

The Chancellor noted that May 5, 2012, will mark the end of Alan Spoon’s 

distinguished service on the Board of Regents. During his two terms on the Board, 

Mr. Spoon served on the Executive Committee from 2001 to 2012 and as Board Vice 

Chair from 2009 to 2012. He is, and will continue to serve as, the chair of the 

Advancement Committee, co-chair of the campaign steering committee, and member 

of the Investment and Strategic Planning and Programs committees. 

Ms. Stonesifer praised Mr. Spoon’s visionary leadership and his contributions to the 

development of bold, far-reaching goals and expectations for both the Board and the 

Smithsonian. The Chancellor presented a motion to confer the title of Regent 

Emeritus on Mr. Spoon. With Mr. Spoon abstaining, the motion was approved.

See attached Action 2012.04.10 (Minutes of the Board of Regents, Appendix A).

The Chancellor presented Mr. Spoon with two gifts in appreciation for his 

contributions to the Board and to the Smithsonian. Standing applause ensued, and 

Mr. Spoon thanked the Chancellor and the Board. He remarked that, given the 

countless hours he spent in museums as a child, his involvement with the Smithsonian 

was not by chance but by fate. He spoke of his enduring commitment to the 

Smithsonian and his profound appreciation for its rich array of resources.

SPACE SHUTTLE DISCOVERY

Dr. Pell presented a video clip of the “seriously amazing” arrival and celebration of the 

Space Shuttle Discovery at the Udvar-Hazy Center. She noted that the successful 

acquisition of the Discovery was largely due to the commitment of National Air and 

Space Museum Director Jack Dailey and NASA Administrator Charles Bolden, as well 

as the support of Congress and the congressional Regents.

REPORT OF THE STRATEGIC PLANNING AND PROGRAMS COMMITTEE

Strategic Planning and Programs Committee Chair Shirley Ann Jackson provided an 

oral report on the committee’s April 9, 2012, meeting. The committee primarily 

discussed the Smithsonian education strategy and the campus master planning 

initiative and looks forward to continuing to work with Ms. Brown and Mr. Horvath on 

those initiatives. The committee also discussed major programmatic activities and 

planned exhibitions, including the search efforts for the next directors of the National 

Museum of American History and the National Museum of Natural History and 
20

funding challenges to the Giant Magellan Telescope project.

Dr. Kurin provided the committee with a report on a memorandum of understanding 

(MOU) between the Smithsonian and the Department of State. The MOU is designed 

to facilitate the use of Smithsonian expertise and content to tell the story of America 

abroad by using electronic platforms, such as mobile phone apps and SI Channel 

programming. The Department of State, which relies on the Smithsonian to provide 

cultural diplomacy outreach, is interested in having the Smithsonian host 

international scholars who can participate in cultural recovery operations and 

museum training programs. It also has assigned to the Smithsonian a full-time 

member of the State Department senior staff, who will support the MOU by 

facilitating partnerships and identifying opportunities.

The committee reviewed the pan-institutional calendar of planned exhibitions for 

potential sensitivities to program content. Dr. Kurin highlighted the work of Chinese 

artist Ai Weiwei and three shows devoted to his art. One installation is on view at the 

Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, another will soon open at the Sackler 

Gallery of Art, and a major retrospective will open at the Hirshhorn in fall 2012. 

Sensitivities about the exhibitions are not related to their content but to the artist, a 

well-known critic of the Chinese government. The Smithsonian is working with the 

Department of State to advocate for Ai Weiwei’s attendance at the opening of his 

retrospective. Should that not occur, it is hoped that the artist can participate in a 

Smithsonian panel discussion via the internet.

NATIONAL COLLECTIONS HIGHLIGHTS

Under Secretary Kurin noted that April 2012 was the 100th anniversary of the sinking 

of the Titanic and the 75th anniversary of the Hindenburg disaster. Both vessels, he 

said, were moving post offices. The Smithsonian’s collections hold artifacts from both 

disasters, some of which are displayed in the National Postal Museum’s exhibition Fire 

and Ice and the National Museum of American History’s permanent exhibition on 

American maritime history. Two objects related to the sinking of the Titanic were 

shown to the Regents: a pocket watch recovered from the body of one of the ship’s 

postal workers and a Brownie camera that captured images of Titanic survivors, as 

well as the iceberg that sank the ship. 

Under Secretary Pell reported that the National Zoo’s female giant panda Mei Xiang 

went into estrus over the weekend and efforts were under way to successfully 

impregnate her. To date, competent natural breeding with the panda’s mate, Tian 

Tian, have been unsuccessful. 

REPORT OF THE GOVERNANCE AND NOMINATING COMMITTEE

Governance and Nominating Committee Chair Roger Sant reported that the 

committee met three times since the Board’s January 2012 meeting. Meeting 

discussions were primarily devoted to the addressing the pending vacancy created by 
21

the retirement of Regent Spoon. The committee also reviewed, and agreed to 

recommend, proposed appointments or reappointments of candidates to 15 

Smithsonian advisory boards. The motions were approved.

See attached Actions 2012.04.11–2012.04.25 (Minutes of the Board of Regents,

Appendix A).

Mr. Sant added that the committee is continuing its review of proposed changes to 

policies on Regent travel expenses and corporate board service.

REPORT OF THE SMITHSONIAN NATIONAL BOARD

Smithsonian National Board (SNB) Chair Paul Neely reported that the National Board 

met two times since the Regents’ January 2012 meeting. Hosted by the Smithsonian 

Tropical Research Institute, the mid-winter meeting was held from February 1 to 3, 

2012, in Panama. The spring meeting was held from April 26 to 28, 2012, in 

Washington, D.C., just days before this meeting of the Board of Regents. 

Mr. Neely said a key focal point of the spring meeting was fellowships across the 

Smithsonian. Five Smithsonian fellows spoke about their scholarly work to National 

Board members, who described both the presentations and the trip to Panama as 

informational and inspirational. Such behind-the-scenes exposure, said Mr. Neely, 

increases passion and commitment among Smithsonian supporters, as well as 

enhances their ability to be persuasive spokespersons for the national campaign. 

REPORT OF THE OFFICE OF GOVERNMENT RELATIONS

Report on Government 

Relations

The Regents did not have any questions about the Report on Government Relations, 

which was included in the advance reading materials. 

The Board adjourned for an executive session.

EXECUTIVE SESSION

The Board’s executive session included a discussion of Board succession planning.

ADJOURNMENT

The meeting was adjourned at approximately 3:45 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

G. Wayne Clough

Secretary
22

APPENDIX A: ACTIONS OF THE

APRIL 30, 2012, MEETING OF THE BOARD OF REGENTS

VOTED that the Board of Regents approves the minutes of the January 23, 2012, meeting of the 

Board of Regents. [2012.04.01]

VOTED that the Board of Regents approves the annual Federal budget priorities proposed by 

the Secretary. [2012.04.02]

VOTED that the Board of Regents approves a payout rate of up to $46.36 per share for all 

Endowment funds for fiscal year 2013. This represents $38.63 per share for programs and 

operating costs and up to $7.73 per share for the national campaign. [2012.04.03]

VOTED that the Board of Regents recognizes the generosity of Joseph Manfred Ennis and 

permits his gifts be directed as recommended by the Under Secretary for History, Art, and 

Culture and the Under Secretary for Science and in accordance with the donor’s intentions. 

[2012.04.04]

VOTED that the Board of Regents recognizes the generosity of David H. Koch to the National 

Museum of Natural History and names the future paleobiology and dinosaur hall in his honor 

until December 31, 2047, a period of 35 years, or the next comprehensive renovation of the 

space, whichever is longer. [2012.04.05]

VOTED that the Board of Regents recognizes the generosity of the Ford Foundation to the 

National Museum of African American History and Culture and names The Ford Foundation 

Beyond 1968 Gallery for a period of 25 years from the official date of the museum opening. 

[2012.04.06]

VOTED that the Board of Regents recognizes the generosity of the Rockefeller Foundation to 

the National Museum of African American History and Culture and names the Rockefeller 

Foundation Panorama of the Modern Civil Rights Movement and Interactive Lunch Counter for 

25 years from official opening date of the museum. [2012.04.07]

VOTED that the Board of Regents recognizes the generosity of Life Technologies Corporation to 

the National Museum of Natural History and accepts the terms of the sponsorship agreement. 

[2012.04.08]

VOTED that the Board of Regents recognizes the generosity of the United Soybean Board to the 

National Museum of American History and accepts the terms of this sponsorship agreement. 

[2012.04.09]

VOTED that the Board of Regents confers the title of Regent Emeritus on Alan G. Spoon with 

deep gratitude for the outstanding service he has provided, and will continue to provide, to the 

Board of Regents and the Smithsonian Institution. [2012.04.10]
23

VOTED that the Board of Regents appoints Vincent J. DiBona, Dennis J. Keller, Cheryl Winter 

Lewy, Diane L. Morris, and Alison Wrigley Rusack and reappoints Rod Adkins, Gordon Ambach, 

Judy Hart Angelo, Barbara Barrett, Bill Bohnett, Ed Gaylord, Myra Hart, Jonathan Kemper, Russ 

Palmer, and Phyllis Taylor to the Smithsonian National Board for three-year terms effective 

October 1, 2012. [2012.04.11]

VOTED that the Board of Regents appoints Donna J. Gambrell to Advisory Board of the 

Anacostia Community Museum for a three-year term effective immediately. [2012.04.12]

VOTED that the Board of Regents appoints Julian Lethbridge and reappoints Ann E. Berman and 

Rona Roob to the Board of Trustees of the Archives of American Art for three-year terms 

effective immediately. [2012.04.13]

VOTED that the Board of Regents reappoints Beth Comstock, Madeleine Rudin Johnson, 

Francine S. Kittredge, Henry R. Muñoz III, and Ruth Ann Stewart to the Board of Trustees of 

Cooper-Hewitt, National Design Museum for three-year terms effective June 1, 2012. 

[2012.04.14]

VOTED that the Board of Regents appoints Stuart Fred and Linda Hudson to the National Board 

of the National Air and Space Museum for three-year terms effective immediately. 

[2012.04.15]

VOTED that the Board of Regents appoints Kwame Akroma-Ampin Kusi Appiah, Magdalene F. 

Johnson-Obaji, Rachel Pearson, and Asif M. Shaikh to the Advisory Board of the National 

Museum of African Art for three-year terms effective immediately. [2012.04.16]

VOTED that the Board of Regents appoints John B. Adams Jr. and reappoints Kathryn Brown, 

Timothy O’Neill, Abbe Raven, and James Vella to the Advisory Board of the National Museum of 

American History for three-year terms effective immediately. [2012.04.17]

VOTED that the Board of Regents reappoints Bruce Babbitt, Jonathan Fink, and Jeremy Sabloff 

to the Advisory Board of the National Museum of Natural History for three-year terms effective 

June 1, 2012, and reappoints Kathryn Fuller and Sandra Day O’Connor to the Board for threeyear terms effective September 1, 2012. [2012.04.18]

VOTED that the Board of Regents appoints Bill Anoatubby, Margaret Brown, and Gregory Pyle 

and reappoints Patricia M. Zell to the Board of Trustees of the National Museum of the 

American Indian for three-year terms effective January 1, 2013. [2012.04.19]

VOTED that the Board of Regents reappoints Sheryll Cashin to the Commission of the National 

Portrait Gallery for a four-year term effective immediately. [2012.04.20]

VOTED that the Board of Regents appoints Gordon E. Eubanks Jr. to the Council of Philatelists of 

the National Postal Museum for a three-year term effective immediately. [2012.04.21]
24

VOTED that the Board of Regents appoints Jeffrey D. DeBoer, Patricia N. Olson, and Beatrice 

Busch von Gontard to the National Advisory Board of the National Zoological Park for threeyear terms effective immediately. [2012.04.22]

VOTED that the Board of Regents appoints William Anders and Howard H. Stevenson to the 

Advisory Board of the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory for three-year terms effective 

immediately. [2012.04.23]

VOTED that the Board of Regents appoints Jack H. Jacobs and Sarah Lawer to the Advisory 

Board of the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service for three-year terms effective 

October 1, 2012. [2012.04.24]

VOTED that the Board of Regents appoints Dorene Domínguez, Phil Fuentes, Aida Levitan, and 

Christine Ortega and reappoints, for an exceptional third term, Virginia González Hough to the 

Smithsonian National Latino Board of the Smithsonian Latino Center for three-year terms 

effective May 1, 2012. [2012.04.25]