MINUTES OF THE APRIL 12, 2010, MEETING

OF THE BOARD OF REGENTS

ATTENDANCE

This scheduled meeting of the Board of Regents was held on Monday, April 12, 2010, in the 

Regents’ Room of the Smithsonian Institution Castle.  The meeting included morning, 

afternoon, and executive sessions.  Board Chair Patricia Q. Stonesifer called the meeting to 

order at 9:18 a.m.  Also present were:

The Chief Justice 1 

Xavier Becerra  

Thad Cochran  

Christopher J. Dodd 2 

France Córdova 

Phillip Frost   

Sam Johnson

Shirley Ann Jackson

Robert P. Kogod 

Patrick J. Leahy    

Doris Matsui  

John W. McCarter Jr.  

David M. Rubenstein 

Roger W. Sant 

Alan G. Spoon   

Paul Neely, Smithsonian National Board Chair 

Vice President Joseph R. Biden was unable to attend the meeting. 

Also present were:  

G. Wayne Clough, Secretary  

Patricia L. Bartlett, Chief of Staff to the  

  Secretary  

Virginia B. Clark, Director of External Affairs  

Grace Jaeger, Program Officer, Office  

of the Regents  

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 Public Affairs  

Alice C. Maroni, Chief Financial Officer  

Alison McNally, Under Secretary for Finance  

  and Administration  

Nell Payne, Director of Government Relations  

Eva J. Pell, Under Secretary for Science  

A. Sprightley Ryan, Inspector General 

Sudafi Henry, Assistant to the Vice President 

Evan Ryan, Assistant to the Vice President 

Jeffrey P. Minear, Counselor to the Chief Justice  

T.A. Hawks, Assistant to Senator Cochran 

Joe Hepp, Assistant to Senator Dodd  

Kevin McDonald, Assistant to Senator Leahy  

Lorenzo Olvera, Assistant to Congressman  

Becerra  

David Heil, Assistant to Congressman Johnson  

Mara Lee, Assistant to Congresswoman Matsui 

Amy Chen, Director of Investments 3  

Brandon Fortune, Acting Director and  

  Associate Curator of Painting and Sculpture,   

   National Portrait Gallery 4

Eleanor Harvey, Chief Curator, 

  Smithsonian American Art Museum 4   

Sheryl Kolasinski, Director, Office of  

  Planning and Project Management 5  

Richard Koshalek, Director, Hirshhorn  

  Museum and Sculpture Garden 5   

Robert Leopold, Director, 

  Anthropological Archives, National  

  Museum of Natural History 4   

_____________________________________________________ 

1  The Chancellor, Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr., attended the afternoon and executive sessions. 

2  Senator Dodd arrived at 12:15 p.m. and voted on resolutions 2010.04.02–2010.04.15.    

3  Ms. Chen participated in the Report of the Investment Committee. 

4  Drs. Fortune, Harvey, and Leopold participated in the presentation “Understanding the American Experience—Picturing America.”  

5  Ms. Kolasinski and Mr. Koshalek participated in the presentation on the Arts and Industries Building. 
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MORNING PLENARY SESSION

TOUR OF THE ARTS AND INDUSTRIES BUILDING

  This meeting of the Board of Regents was preceded by an 8:30 a.m. tour of the 

historic Arts and Industries Building (AIB).  Led by Office of Planning and Project 

Management Director Sheryl Kolasinski, the tour included a walk around the 

ground floor through the area where nearly $5 million in American Reinvestment 

and Recovery Act funds (“stimulus funds”) have been used to remove obsolete 

mechanical equipment, interior partitions, and hazardous materials.  Of particular 

note were areas where original windows have been discovered within the existing 

construction, damage to the roof panels from recent record snowfall, and views and 

vistas that have not been opened up in the building since the early 20th century. 

THE ARTS AND INDUSTRIES BUILDING

Introductory Comments Board Chair Patricia Q. Stonesifer welcomed the Regents as they reconvened in the 

Regents’ Room.  Secretary Clough began the scheduled presentation on the future 

of the Arts and Industries Building.  He said that he had appointed a four‐person 

committee to develop a comprehensive plan for the interior of the building and that 

two of the committee members, Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden (HMSG) 

Director Richard Koshalek and Sheryl Kolasinski, would introduce the proposed 

concept to the Board.   

Mr. Koshalek thanked the Board for the opportunity to engage in this process and 

noted the contributions of the other committee members: Smithsonian Traveling 

Exhibition Service Director of Exhibits Frederica Adelman and HMSG Associate 

Director for Program Partnerships Erica Clark.  He also expressed deep 

appreciation to the architecture firm Morphosis and its principal, Thom Mayne.  

The 2005 Pritzker Architecture Prize laureate and his staff were among the thought 

leaders the committee consulted, and were responsible for developing the program 

ideas into an architectural vision for a transformed Arts and Industries Building.   

Calling the Arts and Industries Building a “Victorian masterpiece,” Mr. Koshalek 

expressed his enthusiasm for the building.  AIB offers a unique opportunity to 

ensure the Smithsonian’s future relevance and leadership, especially with regard to 

advancing the Institution’s national and international role in educational and 

innovative initiatives.   

The Secretary’s

Challenge

The presentation reflected two month’s work in response to an initial challenge

from Secretary Clough.  The four key issues in the Secretary’s request were: that the 

building’s interior reflect the four Grand Challenges of the Smithsonian’s strategic 

plan, that it reopen as quickly as practicable, that it be as innovative as possible, 

and that it benefit all parts of the Smithsonian.   

The concept addressed each concern.  The proposed installation would bring the 

Institution together with a clear and mobilizing vision and would reflect a 
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commitment to not only problem‐solving but also the importance of searching for 

opportunities.  The building, which has been shuttered for five years, will require 

another three to five years to reopen but the proposed concept would benefit both 

the public and the Smithsonian in its ability to connect, support, and advance 

collaborative research and educational activities.  Using new technologies and an 

immersive environment, the installation would not compete with other 

Smithsonian museums and centers.  The installation also would acknowledge the 

critical relationship between a building’s architecture and its interior content 

and/or programs, which must align in order to maintain and enhance the integrity 

of each. 

Mr. Koshalek first discussed the key ideas that provided the underpinnings and 

inspiration for the proposed installation.  He then gave a graphic presentation of a 

first‐stage concept for the building’s interior design.  Both the discussion and 

presentation demonstrated an overall commitment to embracing the Smithsonian 

as a whole and reflected the critical changes in how people learn and interact today 

through the use of new technologies and communication vehicles.  

Guiding Points in the

Development of a 21stCentury “Education

Unifier”

He reviewed the 10 points that informed the concept.  Key among them was the

concept of the revitalized building as a centrally located 21st‐century “education 

unifier.”  The installation would offer state‐of‐the‐art interactive technologies and 

on‐site expertise that would reflect the four Grand Challenges and provide visitors 

access to the entire body of research and knowledge housed at the Smithsonian.  

The interior design would support these activities by providing a multi‐level, 

sculptural environment that leads visitors through a series of interactive spaces, 

galleries, theaters, and immersive educational experiences. 

Using the proposed plan, the building’s status as a National Historic Landmark 

would be safeguarded by the complete restoration of its exterior and interior walls 

and floors to their original condition, all of which would then be left unaltered.  The 

renovated building would be entered from the National Mall to highlight its central 

Smithsonian location.   

Although a permanent exhibit might be devoted to the history of the Mall, the 

concept proposes that no physical objects from the Smithsonian’s museums be 

displayed in AIB to ensure that it does not compete with them.  Instead, the 

installation’s immersive environment would encourage audiences to visit actual 

objects and exhibitions at their respective locations. 

The renovated Arts and Industries Building would assume its role as the 

Smithsonian’s education unifier by providing a central venue for new research and 

training opportunities that address such issues as educational methodologies, new 

technologies, and museum leadership.  The use of a broad array of forward‐looking 

educational applications and resources also would enhance the Smithsonian’s fund‐

raising abilities.  By fusing technology, architecture, science, and art, the revitalized 

building would embody the mission and goals of the Smithsonian Institution in the 

21st century. 

Imagery of the AIB

Design Concept

Ms. Kolasinski then guided the Board through a graphic presentation of the design 

concept.  Using floor plans, sections, and renderings, as well as three‐dimensional 

models, she demonstrated how the extremely flexible design would fracture the 
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interior space of the building into multi‐leveled planes that include theaters, 

learning spaces, programmatic areas, and other resource areas.  Joined by a 

connective tube, organic spaces would erupt in and out of the main floor in a 

sculptural flow offering multiple perspectives that mirror the multi‐dimensional 

and multi‐sensory ways that people communicate and learn.  Different learning 

styles and interactive, educational, exchanges would be supported in four theaters 

that provide both intimate and expansive experiences (such as black box, 3‐D 

digital, one‐on‐one, and satellite hook‐up).  

The juxtaposition of the historic structure with groundbreaking technologies would 

honor the building’s history while expressing the creativity of the present and 

future.  The proposal also would reflect the Smithsonian’s commitment to 

sustainability.  In addition to the use of energy‐saving technologies, such as 

programmable surfaces, the building would employ all practicable methods and 

materials to support its sustainability.  Ecology‐themed areas, such as an interior 

bamboo forest, also would be installed. 

Discussion Ms. Stonesifer asked that the Board provide feedback on the concept for the 

interior architecture of the building.  Both Ms. Stonesifer and the Secretary made 

clear that the concept under consideration does not preclude the use of the building 

for other programmatic purposes, such as a National Museum of the American 

Latino.  The Secretary agreed that the flexibility of the concept would allow the 

building to support different uses and also maintain the integrity of the permanent 

structure.  Congressman Becerra noted that the National Museum of the American 

Latino Commission will inform the Smithsonian of its intentions with regard to the 

site by September or October 2010. 

Ms. Stonesifer said that the Board’s discussion must consider: issues related to the 

building’s physical restoration; the challenge of achieving a compelling educational 

vision that includes and unifies all parts of the Smithsonian; and competing 

potential uses of the building, particularly as the possible site of a future National 

Museum of the American Latino.   

The Secretary said that the ability to secure more funding will determine the 

timeframe for the building’s reopening.  Although $5 million in stimulus funds 

provided for some progress on the demolition of the building’s interior, the total 

cost for the overall restoration of the building will be significant.  He commented on 

the relatively small size of the building and the lack of space to house necessary 

mechanical support systems, adding that the concept just presented to the Board 

would require the placement of mechanical systems outside the structure.  A design 

study will evaluate such costs but a decision on the building’s use will be needed to 

achieve more accurate estimates of its restoration costs.  Preliminary estimates 

indicate that at least $330 million will be required to outfit the building for use.   

Approximately $65 million will be needed to revitalize the AIB shell, including 

replacing the roof, strengthening the structure, and replacing the windows.  Ms. 

Kolasinski noted that the design documents for the building’s shell were 65 percent 

complete and that, once that project is awarded in fiscal year 2010, it is likely that 

more than $200 million will be required to address the building’s mechanical and 

electrical systems.  The concept design documents could be used to provide more 

accurate estimates for the remaining costs to rehabilitate the building.  Dr. Frost 
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emphasized the importance of determining these costs as quickly as possible, 

noting that the estimates will enhance the Smithsonian’s ability to actively raise 

funds for the building. 

With regard to Federal funding for the building, the Secretary said that the fiscal 

year 2010 Federal budget provides $12.6 million to begin work on the building’s 

shell, and emphasized that the stabilization of the building’s roof structure is of 

critical importance.  There are no funds in the fiscal year 2011 Federal budget for 

the building, and it is anticipated that securing Federal funding for AIB in fiscal year 

2012 will be difficult.  Moreover, the top priority in the Institution’s capital 

improvements request in the fiscal year 2012 facilities capital budget will be 

securing Federal funding for the National Museum of African American History and 

Culture (NMAAHC). 

The terms of the Legacy Fund established by Senator Dianne Feinstein (D‐CA) were 

modified to allow more flexibility in the matching of Federal to private funds for the 

use of the building.  However, securing private donations for a building without an 

identified programmatic use is difficult.  Members of senior management and Mr. 

Kogod reviewed all committed or in‐hand donations that could be applied toward 

the Arts and Industries Building if it were used for educational programming, and 

presented a preliminary list of $80 million in educational programs related to the 

proposed AIB concept to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB).  Although 

OMB was not especially responsive to this initial request, the Smithsonian believes 

that at least $40 million of the submission should meet the requirements of the 

Legacy Fund match.   

Dr. Jackson commented on the advantages, disadvantages, and costs related to 

designing sustainable buildings that capture and make use of natural resources 

such as air, light, and water.  Mr. Koshalek explained that the Arts and Industries 

Building, which was created prior to the widespread use of electricity, was 

designed to take full advantage of natural light and that the proposed concept for 

the building’s interior would likewise make every effort to capture natural light.  

The concept also includes other forms of green technology that would provide cost‐

effect ways to achieve energy savings. 

The Regents discussed the parallel priorities of using the AIB as an educational 

unifier and visitor portal versus housing the future National Museum of the 

American Latino.  Ms. Stonesifer was asked if the Latino Commission possesses the 

automatic right of first refusal with regard to AIB.  She explained that Congress, not 

the Commission, possesses the power to make that determination.  Congressman 

Becerra concurred, and noted that Congress’s decision only would be effective upon 

its allocation of funding.  Secretary Clough added that the NMAAHC Plan for Action 

Presidential Commission carefully examined the building as a potential home for 

that museum and concluded that the AIB site was not suitable for its purposes.  Ms. 

Stonesifer noted that the Latino Committee might likewise determine that the 

facility cannot provide for the needs of the future Latino museum.  The Regents also 

discussed the opinion that the structure is not particularly suitable for office space. 

Congressman Becerra expanded upon his previous comment, saying that it is 

imperative that the Smithsonian quickly secure as much funding as possible to 

launch the renovation of the Arts and Industries Building—regardless of its future 
6 

use.  He reminded the Board of the funding difficulties now being encountered by 

the NMAAHC and said that the Regents should devote their energies towards 

developing effective strategies for approaching both houses of Congress for more 

funding. 

He encouraged the Smithsonian to reframe its discussions with Congress and to 

assert the Smithsonian’s role as the cornerstone of the National Mall.  Leveraging 

this understanding will encourage members of Congress to understand that the 

futures of the Smithsonian, including its facilities, and the National Mall are 

inextricably linked.  He noted that, with the exception of the U.S. Department of 

Agriculture Administration Building, the central real estate of the National Mall is 

occupied by Smithsonian buildings and suggested that the Smithsonian investigate 

the possibility of acquiring that structure.  Shifting the focus from the AIB to the 

whole of the Smithsonian, as represented on the National Mall, will provide for a 

long‐term vision that recognizes the role of Congress in the care of the world’s 

largest complex of museum and research organizations.  Efforts to increase donor 

support also would be enhanced by the idea that the National Mall is synonymous 

with the Smithsonian. 

Congresswoman Matsui agreed that reframing the discussion of the AIB as an 

integral part of both the Smithsonian and the National Mall will be key to securing 

more support from Congress.  She noted that members of Congress repeatedly ask 

about the status of the building, using it as a litmus test of the Smithsonian’s 

progress and governance abilities.  Asserting a long‐term, unifying vision of the 

Smithsonian, as was done with the strategic plan, and the National Mall will 

encourage Congress to recognize that the Smithsonian can provide and achieve a 

comprehensive vision for the future of each.   

Members of the Board recognized the potential of the proposed concept to present 

a more comprehensive understanding of the scope of the Smithsonian’s resources.  

Although the programmatic use of the AIB has yet to be determined, the Board 

agreed that education is a top priority for the Smithsonian.  Also important is 

encouraging and facilitating visitors’ understanding and exploration of all 

Smithsonian centers, especially those outside of the National Mall.  The AIB concept 

expresses the importance of knowledge‐building as an important investment for 

the future of all citizens. 

The Board discussed issues related to accepting funds in support of the AIB 

renovation, including the naming of facilities in recognition of such gifts.  Ms. 

Stonesifer said that this issue would be considered in the afternoon session’s 

discussion of the national campaign. 

Ms. Stonesifer summarized the Regents’ discussion of the proposed concept, noting 

their positive response to the concept and the important questions and issues the 

Board had raised.  Looking forward, the leading course of action will be to identify 

programming funds that both align with the strategic plan and are eligible for the 

matching Federal monies from the Legacy Fund.   

With regard to the Legacy Funds, Mr. Sant suggested that some of those monies be 

applied to surveying the experiences of Smithsonian visitors, especially those in the 

Castle building.  Ms. Stonesifer agreed that visitors’ experiences in the Castle should 
7 

be improved and noted the important relationship between that building and the 

AIB.  The renovation needs of the Smithsonian Castle were acknowledged and Mr. 

Koshalek noted that the revitalization of both the AIB and the Castle were linked.   

In closing, Secretary Clough said that it is clear that, to prevent further catastrophic 

loss, the Arts and Industries Building is in need of immediate attention.  He 

emphasized the importance and urgency of securing Legacy Fund monies to ensure 

the integrity of the building and thanked Mr. Koshalek and Ms. Kolasinski for their 

presentation of an exciting and innovative concept of a centrally located 21st‐

century “education unifier.”   

REPORT OF THE BOARD AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE CHAIR

Executive Committee Chair Patricia Stonesifer thanked the Regents for their 

participation in the prior evening’s event at the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture 

Garden and noted that her report would be abbreviated.  She said that the goals of 

this meeting would be to discuss, through the reports of the Regents’ committees, 

the governance of the Smithsonian; to support focused discussions on both the 

future of the Arts and Industries Building and the Grand Challenge “understanding 

the American experience”; and to support, through discussions of the national 

campaign, the Board’s efforts to ensure the future resources of the Smithsonian.  

She also directed the Regents’ attention to the Smithsonian’s first organizational 

plan, which was adopted by the Board of Regents in 1847 and framed the activities 

of the Institution for some 30 years.   

Ms. Stonesifer reported that the Executive Committee met on Thursday, March 25, 

2010, to review the proposed agenda for this meeting of the Board.  She noted that 

this was the first Executive Committee meeting attended by newly appointed 

member Robert Kogod. 

Ms. Stonesifer said that the Executive Committee discussed the ex officio position of 

the vice president of the United States on the Board of Regents and the appropriate 

measures that could be taken to welcome Vice President Joseph Biden to the Board.  

She and Secretary Clough met with him and he expressed his willingness to receive 

regular briefings on the state of the Smithsonian and provide support for its goals.  

He also discussed his inability to attend the meetings of the Board. 

During this discussion the Vice President was apprised of the need for Federal 

funding to support such initiatives as the Congressionally mandated creation of 

NMAAHC.  She noted that the Institution has an excellent representative in the 

Executive Branch who is willing to help the Smithsonian navigate its Federal budget 

negotiations with both the Office of Management and Budget and Congress.  

Ms. Stonesifer was asked if the Board should reconsider its current structure, given 

that the participation of most vice presidents on the Board has been minimal since 

World War II.  She advised that a long view should be taken with regard to the 

participation of the vice president of the United States on the Board of Regents.  

Removing that position from the Board would require a change in both the Bylaws 

and Charter of the Board.  Governance and Nominating Committee Chair Shirley 
8 

Ann Jackson acknowledged that the participation of all members of the Board had 

been a key point in the governance recommendations but concurred with Ms. 

Stonesifer that a historic perspective should be held with regard to the 

participation of vice presidents on the Board.  The Governance and Nominating 

Committee will continue to review this issue. 

Minutes of the January

25, 2010, Meeting   A motion to approve the minutes of the January 25, 2010, Regents’ meeting was 

approved. 

See attached Resolution 2010.04.01 (Minutes of the Board of Regents, Appendix A).

REPORT OF THE SECRETARY 

Visitorship and

Broadening Access   The Secretary reported that visitorship to the Smithsonian has been substantial 

since the beginning of fiscal year 2010, and that attendance during four of the six 

months of the year surpassed comparable visitorship records for fiscal year 2009.  

There was an anticipated drop in visitorship in January 2010, compared to the 

previous year’s records, due to the 2009 inauguration of President Obama.  The 

historic snowstorm of February 2010 forced the Smithsonian to close its museums 

in Washington, D.C., for four days, in full or in part.  The snowstorm also impacted 

the Smithsonian’s facilities: an off‐site storage building at the Garber Facility 

collapsed, damaging collections of the National Air and Space Museum.  Since that 

time, the Smithsonian’s museums have had a significant upswing and visitation 

records for the fiscal year are now on track to compare favorably to fiscal year 

2009.   

In conjunction with the State Department, the Smithsonian hosted visits from the 

President and First Lady of Senegal, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary, and 

from the First Lady of Haiti.  Under the direction of Under Secretary for History, Art, 

and Culture Richard Kurin, the Smithsonian is developing strategies to support 

Haiti’s efforts to recover and conserve the art and cultural artifacts damaged by its 

recent catastrophic earthquake.  The Smithsonian also welcomed the President of 

Argentina and, in conjunction with the State Department, is sponsoring 26 events in 

recognition of the bicentennial of Argentina. 

Smithsonian

Leadership

Secretary Clough reported that there are no longer acting directors in any senior 

leadership positions.  Daniel Sheehy was appointed the Director of the Smithsonian 

Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage and Claudine Brown will join the 

Smithsonian in June 2010 as the new Director of Education.  Ms. Brown, who has 

served as the Director of the Arts and Culture Program at the Nathan Cummings 

Foundation in New York since 1995, previously was the Smithsonian’s Deputy 

Assistant Secretary for Arts and Humanities.   

Broadening Access

through Exhibitions

and New Media

The Secretary commented on the numerous outstanding exhibits that recently 

opened throughout the Smithsonian, adding that the strength of these exhibitions 

have contributed to recent increases in Smithsonian visitorship.  The David H. Koch 

Hall of Human Origins and its exhibit Human Origins: What Does It Mean to Be

Human? recently had a successful opening.  A gift from the Chair of the Board, Ms. 

Stonesifer, and her husband, Michael Kinsley, will soon provide an iPhone 
9 

application that is intended to encourage visitation to the exhibit’s Web portal.  She 

said that the Web sites for both that exhibit and the Sant Ocean Hall set a new 

standard for the Smithsonian’s presence on the Web.  The Secretary also 

commented that the YouTube video of First Lady Michelle Obama’s presentation of 

her inaugural gown to the National Museum of American History has been widely 

viewed and thanked Alan Spoon for supporting that initiative.  There are now 200 

social media accounts at the Smithsonian.  Vehicles such as YouTube, Flikr, Twitter, 

and Facebook are significantly expanding the Smithsonian’s reach across the globe. 

The Four Grand

Challenges

Secretary Clough reported that the four centers that will support the four Grand 

Challenges will now be recognized as the consortia.  Eva Pell and Richard Kurin are 

leading efforts to select the directors of the four consortia.  The consortia directors 

will be housed in the Smithsonian Castle in an effort to break down information 

silos and facilitate interdisciplinary, collaborative initiatives. 

The Smithsonian held the first of four idea fairs in support of the four Grand 

Challenges and the consortia to address the challenges.  The fairs are designed to 

support innovative and substantive ideas from across the Institution.  The first fair, 

which considered the American identity, drew over 200 participants who 

submitted more than 70 proposals. 

The development of the international museum professional studies program has 

advanced, with the Smithsonian’s commitment to work with other government 

agencies to support the recovery of Haiti’s cultural artifacts.  This effort is 

benefiting from the support of First Lady Michelle Obama, as well as from Mr. and 

Mrs. Roger Sant.   

The Secretary reported on his recent visit to Abu Dhabi, and meetings with 

representatives of New York University, which has a presence in the country.  

Discussions included the review of the guiding principles previously approved by 

the Board of Regents, as well as the financial implications if such a program were 

established.  He characterized his visit as positive and said that elements of a 

proposal will likely be presented for the Regents’ review in September 2010.  

Representatives from Singapore and Egypt also have visited the Smithsonian and 

expressed interest in establishing museum professional education programs with 

the Smithsonian. 

Updates of the Federal

and Trust Budgets The Secretary reported that the Office of Management and Budget’s (OMB) 

proposal for the Smithsonian’s fiscal year 2011 Federal budget was very strong.  

The proposed 4.8 percent increase would be considered positive at any time but 

this recommended increase is especially fortunate given the current financial 

climate.  OMB is impressed with the strategic plan, the ability of the Smithsonian to 

handle an increase of 6 million visitors in fiscal year 2009 without additional 

Federal monies, and the digitization initiative that will support the public’s access 

to the Smithsonian’s collections and resources.  The Secretary will soon testify 

before the House Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies 

chaired by Congressman James Moran (D‐VA), who is very familiar with the 

Smithsonian’s programs and facilities, including those in Virginia.  The Secretary 

said the fiscal year 2012 Federal budget will be very challenging. 

The Institution’s Trust budget, which funds approximately 35 percent of the 
10 

Smithsonian’s activities, is positive.  Government grants and contracts, as well as 

Smithsonian Enterprises, are on track to meet their stretch goals.  The first half of 

fiscal year 2010 reflected a 20 percent increase in grant and contract awards, and 

indirect cost recovery goals are being implemented with all new proposals.  

Philanthropic giving is somewhat less than had been anticipated but, with a strong 

pipeline in place, it is anticipated that the Smithsonian will come close to meeting 

its fiscal year 2010 goal for philanthropic contributions. 

Smithsonian Enterprises is launching new initiatives and exploring new marketing 

opportunities.  A relationship has been established with shopping network QVC 

that will market items, such as a licensed jewelry line based on the gem collection 

of the National Museum of Natural History that will increase exposure to the 

Smithsonian and its merchandise.  Floral network FTD will offer plants and 

arrangements inspired by the Smithsonian’s botanical collections.  The Smithsonian 

will maintain control over the content and quality of these products.  

Fiscal Year 2009 Audit Noting that this topic would be discussed during the Report of the Audit and 

Review Committee, the Secretary briefly spoke of successful results of the fiscal 

year 2009 audit.  The Smithsonian achieved an unqualified opinion and no material 

weaknesses or significant deficiencies were found in the audit.  He expressed his 

appreciation for the contributions of Smithsonian staff and Committee Chair John 

McCarter in achieving this outcome. 

Best Practices Study The Secretary said that Finance Committee Chair Roger Sant would provide a more 

detailed update on the eight‐week‐long best practices study being conducted by 

outside consultants McKinsey & Company.  The McKinsey review will: 

 develop a “change story” that reflects the changing face of the Smithsonian, 

 develop a master organizational architecture based on the strategic plan, 

and 

 improve major administrative processes. 

The Secretary noted that the Smithsonian implemented seven different 

organizational plans over the previous 20 years.  The results of the McKinsey 

review will provide a strong administrative model that will support the consortia 

and interdisciplinary activities articulated in the strategic plan, as well as achieve 

significant savings in time and money.  An ad hoc committee of outside experts with 

demonstrated leadership experience is providing oversight of the study.   

McKinsey & Company found that the process for creating and reporting on the 

Smithsonian’s annual goals is flawed.  The current process, however, will be 

followed for the remainder of the year and quarterly updates will be provided.  The 

framework for the branding initiative is in place and the selection of an outside 

service provider is now down to three finalists. 

Discussion Congressman Becerra congratulated the Secretary on the Smithsonian’s excellent 

visitorship records.  The Smithsonian’s visitor experience is an excellent value, 

especially during periods of economic downturn.  He suggested that the 

Smithsonian find more ways to promote its resources to travelers looking for value‐

added, cost‐effective experiences. 

He spoke of the Smithsonian’s Federal budget negotiations and the need to assure 
11 

that Congress does not reduce the proposed fiscal year 2011 Federal budget.  While 

the Smithsonian must express its appreciation for the proposed budget, the 

Secretary also should make clear that the proposed budget can not address the 

overarching infrastructure problems of the Institution.  Members of the 

Congressional appropriations committees must understand that the Smithsonian’s 

seemingly strong budget only reflects how far behind the Institution is in its ability 

to fund critically needed initiatives, and the Smithsonian has been very patient with 

regard to the ongoing lack of sufficient Federal support.  The proposed budget will 

only keep the Smithsonian from “drowning” and the ongoing lack of appropriate 

Federal funding is not sustainable for the Smithsonian. 

STRATEGIC FOCUS ON UNDERSTANDING THE AMERICAN 

EXPERIENCE: PICTURING AMERICA

Introductory Remarks Ms. Stonesifer introduced Richard Kurin who, along with three of his colleagues,

would give an illustrated presentation on “Picturing America” and the Grand 

Challenge “understanding the American Experience.”  Ms. Stonesifer commented on 

the contributions of one of the presenters, Brandon Fortune, who has been serving 

as Acting Director of the National Portrait Gallery during the unplanned absence of 

Gallery Director Martin Sullivan.  In addition to Dr. Fortune, who also is the 

Associate Curator of Painting and Sculpture at the National Portrait Gallery, Dr. 

Kurin introduced Smithsonian American Art Museum Chief Curator Eleanor Harvey 

and National Museum of Natural History’s National Anthropological Archives 

Director Robert Leopold.  Dr. Kurin  acknowledged the important contributions of 

the other members of the “Picturing America Team,” including Hirshhorn Museum 

and Sculpture Garden Chief Curator Kerry Brougher, National Museum of American 

History Curator of Photography Michelle Delaney, Archives of American Art Chief 

Curator Liza Kirwin, National Museum of African American History and Culture 

Curator Jackie Serwer, National Museum of the American Indian Curator of Art Paul 

Chaat Smith, and National Air and Space Museum Curator of Space History 

Margaret Weitekamp. 

Dr. Kurin said that the pan‐Institutional presentation would examine how art and 

visual culture at the Smithsonian represent the “American experience,” as well as 

support the study of the Grand Challenge “understanding the American 

experience.”  The collection, study, and presentation of visual imagery at the 

Smithsonian cross disciplines and impact all four Grand Challenges in the strategic 

plan. 

The Smithsonian’s collections represent the American experience in multiple visual 

forms, such as painting, photography, video, and crafts.  The imagery in these forms 

reflects the American landscape and the changes, struggles, and achievements of its 

citizenry.  The presentation considered the relationship between the Smithsonian’s 

visual collections and civic purpose, research, and education; and examined the 

strengths and weaknesses of the collections, their conservation, accessibility, and 

ability to support the implementation of the strategic plan.   

Many Americans know very little about the history, culture, values, 

accomplishments, and developments of their country.  Dr. Kurin spoke of the 
12 

Smithsonian’s resources and ability to encourage the development of informed and 

knowledgeable citizens, and noted that the aforementioned 1847 Smithsonian 

organizational plan recognized that the Smithsonian’s commitment to the “increase 

and diffusion” of knowledge was beneficial for democracy.  America must be 

cognizant of its global role and the importance of informing other cultures about 

the history, values, and contributions of the United States. 

Contemporary society is moving from a textual to a visual culture.  Driving forces 

behind this change include the ability of the Web and other technologies that 

disseminate information to ever larger audiences.  The Smithsonian’s presence on 

the Web will be increasingly important in efforts to enhance access to the 

Institution’s resources. 

History of American Art

at the Smithsonian

Dr. Kurin briefly outlined the history of the Smithsonian’s collections of American 

art and visual culture, which predate the establishment of the Institution.  The 

founding statute of the Smithsonian called for the establishment of an art gallery, 

although this commitment to art was not equally shared by all members of the 

Smithsonian’s leadership.  Smithsonian Secretary Joseph Henry, for instance, 

characterized the paintings of Native Americans by renowned American painter 

George Catlin as “ethnological.”  

The Smithsonian’s acquisitions and exhibitions during the 19th through the early 

20th century reflected a deference to European and classical forms.  Its first 

exhibition of photography occurred with the 1896 Washington Salon and Art 

Photographic Exhibition, and the collection of both photographs and photographic 

equipment began soon thereafter.  The first Smithsonian museum dedicated solely 

to art was the Freer Gallery of Art, whose founding benefactor understood the 

aesthetic harmonies between Asian and American art. 

Dr. Kurin reviewed the overarching questions included in the Grand Challenge of 

understanding the American experience: 

How did people arrive and establish themselves in the Americas?

What makes the peoples of the United States one nation, and how have people 

construed nationhood over time? 

How do we understand the continued development of American political, 

economic, social, and cultural life? 

What are the experiences of the diverse cultural communities who make up the 

United States and how are they expressed? 

How do American history, art, and culture impact the heritage and the creativity 

of people from across the globe?   

These questions address issues of origins; national identity; change through 

innovation, struggle, and achievement; diversity; and connections.  The 

Smithsonian’s ability to enhance understanding of the American experience 

requires support for two audiences—those who can increase the scholarly 

understanding of the American experience and the public—and it is important to 

fund activities that will support the needs of both groups.  Funding museum 

exhibitions and other forms of public outreach is as important as supporting the 

research, collections care, and facilities that underlie such activities.   
13 

The American

Experience: Exhibitions

and Collections

Robert Leopold then spoke about the types of Smithsonian exhibits and collections 

that tell the stories and themes of the American experience, and the strategic plan’s 

aspiration to, among other things, help American citizens understand their origins.  

The Smithsonian’s exhibitions and collections reflect the prehistoric and historic 

origins, migrations, and cultures of Native Americans, the European colonization of 

the new country, slavery and the forced immigration of African Americans, and the 

stories of other immigrant groups.  Symbols of the American identity are found 

throughout the Smithsonian’s collections.   

Objects such as the Star‐Spangled Banner, as well as portraits of American leaders 

and cultural figures, convey and inform the American experience.  Stamps and coins 

also reflect the nation and its history, as do objects such as films and videos, 

drawings, catalogs, collectibles, and other items that document American sports, 

entertainment, and popular culture.  Scientific achievements, such as the 

exploration of space, are documented in the Smithsonian’s collection of art and 

visual imagery.  The rich resources of the American landscape are seen in landscape 

paintings and wildlife images.  Challenges to the environment can be seen in images 

that reflect the urbanization of society; economic trials can be seen in the 

Smithsonian’s collection of works created during the Great Depression with the 

support of the Federally funded Public Works of Art Project. 

The nation’s political and social struggles are reflected in Smithsonian art and 

artifact collections.  The Institution’s Civil War collections are especially rich and 

America’s involvement in international conflicts also is represented.  Civil conflicts 

can be seen in works that document slavery, the taking of Native American lands, 

and the efforts of African Americans and Native Americans to achieve equality and 

justice.  Also represented are the struggles of Latino laborers and other immigrants, 

as well as people such as the disabled who encounter discrimination.  Such images 

are part of a larger representation of the diversity of America’s citizens.   

Noting that contemporary art positions itself as global art, Dr. Leopold said that the 

Smithsonian’s collection of contemporary art reflects global relationships, 

influences, and traditions, as well as the interconnected nature of contemporary 

society.  Modern media, such as digitally based art, demonstrates the ability of 

artists to portray the American experience through new technology. 

Senator Leahy asked about the relationship of the Smithsonian’s film and video 

collections to those held by other institutions, such as the Library of Congress.  Ms. 

Stonesifer also inquired about the Smithsonian’s representation of all visual media, 

asking if the Smithsonian had a unique responsibility to represent all media forms 

that reflect the American experience.  Dr. Kurin explained that the collections of the 

Library of Congress include all copyrighted books, films, and videos and that the 

Smithsonian’s acquisitions in such specialized areas are intended to buttress its 

collections.  With regard to works on film or video, the Smithsonian’s collections of 

recordings are more comprehensive than those held by the Library of Congress.  

The Smithsonian, like many other institutions, also participates in collaborative 

programs. 

Caring for Collections

that Reflect the

American Experience  

Eleanor Harvey discussed the Smithsonian’s intellectual and physical stewardship 

of collections that visually represent the American experience.  The Smithsonian’s 

conservators care for a wide array of artifacts from around the globe, the 
14 

conservation and study of which support the ability of American citizens to 

understand their nation and enhance communications between world cultures. 

The Smithsonian’s collections offer unparalleled research resources, and their 

conservation supports critically recognized studies.  The Archives of American Art, 

for example, offer resource materials such as letters, oral histories, sketches, and 

other documents that support the study of the visual arts in America.  Studies of art 

and cultural artifacts reveal and document the experiences of diverse American 

communities and cultures, and the study of aesthetic styles provides legitimacy to 

cultural groups and events.  Understanding the American experience is informed by 

such research as National Portrait Gallery Historian David Ward’s analysis of the 

Gallery’s photographs of Abraham Lincoln and the broadsides he authored, which 

revealed Lincoln’s careful cultivation and management of his public image.  The 

Smithsonian’s collections of art and visual culture also reflect the impact of the 

visual arts on scientific initiatives.  Dr. Harvey cited American painter Abbott 

Thayer’s nature studies, which led to the development of modern military 

camouflage, and Timothy H. O’Sullivan’s post–Civil War survey photographs, which 

document the geological formations and settlement prospects of the American 

West and Southwest. 

Dr. Harvey described the important role of conservation with regard to the recent 

collapse of a Garber storage facility.  The facility held artwork from the collections 

of the National Air and Space Museum, some of which was damaged and 

subsequently transferred to the care of Smithsonian conservators. 

The Smithsonian supports research on conservation methods and materials.  

Scholars and scientists from the Smithsonian’s museums, the Lunder Conservation 

Center, and the Museum Conservation Institute conduct groundbreaking scientific 

analysis and technical studies that advance the entire field of conservation.  

Smithsonian conservators routinely collaborate with colleagues from around the 

world to pioneer new conservation techniques that safeguard fragile works of art.  

Dr. Harvey cited a recent international symposium on the conservation of new 

media that was co‐sponsored by the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden and 

the Lunder Conservation Center.  The results of the symposium will inform 

conservation treatments and help establish a best‐practices framework that will 

support the conservation of not only the Institution’s art collections, but also 

objects in other Smithsonian collections.   

It is important to make art conservation accessible to the public.  With the support 

of facilities such as the internationally recognized Lunder Conservation Center at 

the Smithsonian American Art Museum, Smithsonian visitors are increasingly given 

the opportunity to observe and learn about the preservation of the collections that 

represent the American experience.  In addition to the Smithsonian’s support for 

visible conservation centers, public and scholarly programs and Web initiatives 

help raise awareness of the need to care for and preserve objects that represent the 

heritage of American families and their cultures.   

Conservation and collaborative research underlie the Smithsonian’s participation in 

provenance research and repatriation initiatives.  The Smithsonian’s commitment 

to collaborative conservation initiatives also is seen in its support for conservation 

and artist research fellowships, as well as in the many conferences, seminars, 
15 

Webinars, and lecture series it sponsors.  Conservation‐based studies on artistic 

techniques, visual information processing, and the meaning and influence of visual 

imagery, among other things, are examples of the topics addressed in these 

programs.  The Smithsonian annually sponsors dozens of fellows who often become 

highly regarded leaders in the field of conservation.  The scholarly research of 

Smithsonian conservators is published in internationally respected publications, 

books, scholarly journals, and exhibition catalogues.   

Understanding the

American Experience

by Supporting Access to

the Smithsonian’s

Resources

Brandon Fortune then discussed the Smithsonian’s many outreach activities that 

enhance understanding of the American experience.  Stating that the diffusion of 

knowledge is as important as the increase of knowledge, Dr. Fortune spoke of the 

many ways that the Smithsonian ensures that its visual resources educate, inform, 

and inspire. 

In addition to its museum exhibitions, the Smithsonian provides access to various 

collections and archival materials to researchers, scholars, and the public.  Online 

exhibitions, digital access to collections, and the use of new media outlets make art 

and material culture collections available for public and scholarly consumption.  

The Smithsonian responds to tens of thousands of requests each year, providing 

informed responses from experts in their fields.  The Smithsonian Channel likewise 

provides a wealth of information about the American experience.

The Smithsonian also provides access to its resources by sharing art from its 

collections through individual loan agreements, the Smithsonian Affiliates, and the 

Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Services.  Dr. Fortune spoke of the 

Smithsonian’s educational outreach initiatives both on and outside of the facilities 

on the National Mall.  Collaborative educational initiatives have resulted in such 

successful programs as “Posters to Go” and “Picturing America.”  “Smithsonian in 

Your Classroom” has promoted visual and cultural literacy by reaching some 

87,000 classrooms across the United States.  The Smithsonian also participates in 

interactive distance‐learning initiatives, such as a partnership with the United 

States Department of Defense that provides art and art history lessons to students 

on military bases throughout the world.  Resources are also provided to teachers 

through podcasts and online access to collections, exhibitions, lectures, and other 

materials. 

The Smithsonian also encourages the creation of imagery that is often reflective of 

the American experience.  The Virginia Outwin Boochever Portrait Competition, 

Smithsonian magazine’s photo contest, and the Smithsonian Photography Initiative 

and Folklife Festival’s collaboration with Flikr are just three of the many programs 

that express and enhance Americans’ understanding of their national and cultural 

identity.  Alternative reality games, such as the “Latino Virtual Museum,” and other 

online programs offer participatory activities that engage and inform younger 

audiences.  Visual innovation is also encouraged by the National Design Awards 

sponsored by Cooper‐Hewitt, National Design Museum.   

Documenting,

Presenting, and

Representing the

American Experience

The Smithsonian is unique in its ability to document, present, and represent the 

American experience.  Examples include the presidential portrait collection of the 

National Portrait Gallery and loans from the Smithsonian’s collections to the White 

House, both of which provide opportunities for citizens from across the world to 

view art that reflects the American experience.  The potential of American Art to be 
16 

emblematic is evidenced in artist Roy Lichtenstein’s sculpture Modern Head, which 

was acquired by the Smithsonian American Art Museum after its use as an FBI 

message board in the aftermath of the 9/11 attack on the World Trade Center.   

Dr. Kurin discussed key objectives of the Grand Challenge “understanding the 

American experience” and the efforts of the Smithsonian to address these 

objectives.  The Smithsonian’s collections of material culture and art currently do 

not reflect the full diversity of American communities, experiences, and 

interrelationships.  The National Museum of the American Indian and the future 

opening of the National Museum of African American History and Culture, he said, 

can and will advance this effort but programs that address other American 

communities, such as the Latino and Asian Pacific American populations, are in 

need of more support. 

Just as American culture continues to change, the Smithsonian’s collections must 

evolve to include objects that reflect American culture.  The Smithsonian’s 

collections of art and cultural artifacts also must continue to reflect the 

globalization of contemporary society, including the relationships and influences of 

world cultures.   

With respect to the strategic plan’s commitment to increasing access to 

Smithsonian resources, Dr. Kurin focused his remarks on the digitization of the 

Institution’s collections.  Only a very small portion of the Smithsonian’s art and 

artifact collections have been recorded in digital files.  Accelerating this process will 

allow the public to engage in the work of the Smithsonian and support educational 

initiatives that enhance understanding of the American experience. 

Looking Forward The Smithsonian must continue telling the American story in bigger, better, and 

more collaborative ways.  Understanding the American experience will require the 

ongoing collection and application of new media, as well as the exploration of new 

venues in which to share the Smithsonian’s resources.  Supporting interdisciplinary 

endeavors, such as the recent Smithsonian idea fair, encourages staff to think of the 

Smithsonian as whole.  The forthcoming anniversary of the American Civil War is 

but one of many events that can provide opportunities for collaborative initiatives 

that draw from a wide array of Smithsonian resources in order to present richly 

textured programs. 

The Smithsonian’s collections do not adequately reflect the depth of America’s 

diversity or express the complexities of the American experience, and the erosion 

of the Smithsonian’s Federal budget over the years has diminished its ability to do 

so.  To tell the American story, and tell it well, the Smithsonian must invest in its 

intellectual capital and support robust research and scholarship.  

Discussion Ms. Stonesifer thanked the speakers for their expert presentations on the 

Smithsonian’s activities that support the understanding of the American experience 

through art and material culture imagery.  She opened the Regents’ discussion of 

the presentation by expressing her concern about changing information 

consumption patterns, citing the movement in journalism from an expert‐driven 

model to a novice‐driven model that values volume, distribution, and excitement 

over authority.  She acknowledged the need to strengthen the Smithsonian’s 

scholarly staff but asked if the proliferation of cottage producers might diminish the 
17 

Smithsonian’s ability to advance the understanding of the American experience.

Dr. Kurin responded that the Smithsonian needs to both strengthen the 

Smithsonian’s curatorial expertise and participate in new media initiatives.  He said 

that many curators are attuned to the role of new media in the increase and 

diffusion of knowledge, and cited the success of the Smithsonian 2.0 conference and 

the enthusiastic response of both curators and viewers to the exploration of new 

communication vehicles.  The Smithsonian cannot compete with the massive 

volume of information available through new media sources but can—and 

should—maintain a standard of excellence in the quality of information that it 

provides.   

  

Mr. Spoon said that establishing the Smithsonian’s role in such initiatives requires 

more than addressing its functional capabilities, such as increasing the number of 

staff who enable access to the Institution’s resources.  The Smithsonian must 

demonstrate that it is the primary point of entry in the search for authoritative 

information about the American experience, and about other subjects found in the 

Smithsonian’s resources.  Senator Leahy commented on the seductive potential of 

new technologies, stating that, in its search to provide increased access to its 

resources, the Smithsonian must honor its core values and maintain its ability to 

offer the highest levels of expert, authoritative information.   

Dr. Jackson stated that it is important to establish a deliberate plan that addresses 

what, who, and how: what is it that the Smithsonian wants to communicate, with 

whom does it wish to correspond, and how it should do so.  Establishing the key 

messages and goal audiences will drive the decisions about which communication 

pipelines, or the “how,” should be pursued. 

She then posed what she characterized as a philosophical question: Is the American 

experience the American identity?  Immigration is considered to be a uniquely 

American experience but that that perspective doesn’t acknowledge the 

experiences of Native Americans, or even the slaves who arrived against their will. 

Ms. Stonesifer said that the strategic plan articulated the Smithsonian’s 

responsibility for furthering understanding of the American experience.  She asked 

if planning was under way that will strengthen what the Smithsonian wants to say, 

to whom, and how, and if management will be able to report in one year’s time on 

its efforts to address these critical issues.  The Secretary and Dr. Kurin assured the 

Board that many of the programs articulated in the strategic plan, such as the 

creation of consortia to advance interdisciplinary activities and the establishment 

of a central office of education, will support the Smithsonian’s ability to address 

these questions, and will do so through the lens of larger institutional themes.   

Mr. Rubenstein noted that it is also important to assess what audiences are actually 

learning.  He proposed the implementation of incentive‐based programs, similar to 

spelling bees, that encourage the involvement of younger audiences who want to 

learn. 

Mr. Kogod said that it was important to recognize the significance of the many 

forward‐looking Smithsonian initiatives that have been, or are about to be, 

launched, such as the strategic plan, a national campaign, the revitalization of the 
18 

Arts and Industries Building, the establishment of a central education office, and the 

branding of the Smithsonian.  This is a key moment in the history of the 

Smithsonian, and it is important that the Board ask and answer the critical 

questions that will shape the future of the Smithsonian, as well as contribute to the 

nation.  Noting that all of these activities must be accomplished within the next one 

to two years, Mr. Kogod expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity to participate 

in such an important enterprise. 

Mr. McCarter noted that he agreed with the importance of these efforts, but also 

cautioned that a tone of monopoly could be inferred if collaborative initiatives with 

outside institutions are not encouraged.  Significant resources can be found in 

outside universities, museums, and other organizations and constructive 

partnerships can yield benefits that supplement the resources of the Institution.  

The Lower East Side Tenement Museum and the Ellis Island National Monument 

are just two of the many organizations whose resources enhance the understanding 

of the American experience. 

The Board then discussed the potential benefits and drawbacks of partnerships 

with outside organizations.  Among the issues considered were the ability of a 

partnership to enhance or diminish the brand of either partner, the problems that 

can arise with partnerships, and if increased cooperation and access to the 

Smithsonian’s resources could lead to a perception that the Smithsonian is a 

coordinating institution and not a primary resource. 

Noting that the Smithsonian’s mission is to support the “increase and diffusion of 

knowledge,” Dr. Jackson said that encouraging such relationships advances both the 

historic mission and the ongoing programs of the Institution.  The Smithsonian 

must establish itself as a leading voice in the creation of partnerships that benefit 

the nation and the world.  To not do so could establish it as an information silo and 

diminish its relevance.   

Representative Matsui commented that, although widely trusted and respected, the 

Smithsonian does not possess expertise in all areas.  Collaborations should be an 

important part of the Smithsonian’s commitment to the dissemination of 

knowledge, and many institutions are eager to partner with the Smithsonian.   

The Secretary spoke of the ability of the Smithsonian to have a national impact with 

regard to the four Grand Challenges of the strategic plan.  He cited the results of a 

Harris interactive brand study that ranked the Smithsonian as fifth in overall 

quality and as the sixth most‐trusted brand out of 1151 brands across the nation. 

Ms. Stonesifer concluded the discussion by presenting a charge to the Under 

Secretary for History, Art, and Culture.  She asked that Dr. Kurin return with a panel 

of experts within the year and provide deliberate and descriptive answers to the 

following questions: 

 What is it that the Smithsonian wants to—and must—say about the

American experience? 

 To whom and with whom? 

 And how? 

Ms. Stonesifer noted that the update will better inform the Board about the 
19 

Smithsonian’s efforts to enhance the understanding of the American experience and

provide direction on future actions that support this Grand Challenge.  On behalf of 

the Board, Ms. Stonesifer then thanked Dr. Kurin and his staff for a “remarkable” 

presentation.    

REPORT OF THE FINANCE COMMITTEE 

Update on the

Institution’s Best

Practices and

Organizational Review  

Finance Committee Chair Roger Sant said his report would include three issues of 

particular significance.  He first updated the Board on the best practices assessment 

and organizational review being conducted by McKinsey and Company.   

Mr. Sant recruited an advisory group of outside professionals with recognized 

leadership experience to oversee the review and advise the Secretary and the 

Regents on its progress.  The ad hoc committee, with the addition of Ms. Stonesifer, 

conducted two progress reviews of the study.  The discussions revealed a 

consensus that the effort required to achieve organizational changes could not be 

underestimated or under‐resourced.  The group will meet in approximately one 

month to review the final draft of the McKinsey report and the study will be 

presented for the Regents’ review at the June 2010 Board meeting. 

Mr. Sant expressed his high regard for the work being conducted by McKinsey, 

noting that the group has been “stunningly accurate” in its ability to identify critical 

themes, questions, and goals, all of which will inform its final report and 

recommendations.  The implementation of the proposed organizational changes 

will require a significant long‐term commitment on the part of the Smithsonian. 

Refinancing the

Discovery Center Debt   Mr. Sant reported on the refinancing of the $32.8 million debt of the Discovery 

Center at the National Museum of Natural History, an initiative previously 

approved by the Board.  Smithsonian Treasurer Sudeep Anand reported to the 

Committee that the refinancing of the debt was proceeding on schedule, would 

likely be completed by the end of April 2010, and was anticipated to achieve annual 

interest savings of $300,000 to $400,000 in unrestricted funds.  Standard and 

Poor’s reaffirmed the Smithsonian’s AAA/A‐1 credit rating and Moody’s Investor 

Service likewise reaffirmed the Institution’s Aaa/VMIG 1 rating. 

Update on the Fiscal

Year 2012 Federal

Budget Process

The fiscal year 2012 Federal budget environment remains the focus of great 

concern.  The Secretary’s top priority is addressing the shortfall in funding for the 

National Museum of African American History and Culture, and the Institution is 

making every effort to obtain the remaining Federal Capital requirement of $205 

million for the Museum.  Securing funding for other critical needs, such as the 

revitalization of the Arts and Industries Building, also is the subject of ongoing 

discussions and planning sessions.  

REPORT OF THE INVESTMENT COMMITTEE

Performance of

the Endowment

Investment Committee Vice Chair Roger Sant provided an abbreviated report on 

the activities of the Committee.  The Endowment market balance as of December 

31, 2009, was $910.9 million.  The Committee is somewhat disappointed with the 
20 

Endowment’s return over the previous year, during which time it achieved a mid‐

level ranking within its peer universe; the Committee also is not very satisfied the 

annualized five‐year return on the Endowment. The Endowment achieved a 37th 

percentile ranking over an annualized three‐year period.  The drop in the 

Endowment’s return over the previous year was the result of conservative 

investment decisions, such as maintaining high cash balances, in response to a 

period of unprecedented volatility in the markets.  With regard to the performance 

of the Endowment since calendar year‐end 2009, initial results exceeded both 

benchmarks and returns in its peer universe.  

Report on the

Governance Review of

the Committee

He then presented an overview of Cambridge Associates’ (CA) review of the 

Investment Committee’s governance.  The assessment of the Endowment’s 

governance was positive but several recommendations were made to enhance the 

Committee’s performance.  CA commented on the lack of provisions for staggered 

Committee terms and the uneven attendance of Committee members; it also 

expressed concern that nearly all Committee meetings have been conducted via 

teleconference.  Unlike plenary meetings of the Board, Regents’ committee 

meetings can be conducted via teleconference.  The Committee may conduct trial 

videoconference meetings in response to the CA concern.   

Director of Investments Amy Chen was asked for the most recent assessment of the 

Endowment’s value.  She said that preliminary reports on the Endowment’s 

performance at the end of March 2010 indicated a value of approximately $931 

million net, reflecting an increase of 3.2 percent this calendar year.   

The Report of the Investment Committee concluded the morning session of the 

Regents’ meeting, which was adjourned for lunch at 12:27 p.m.  

AFTERNOON PLENARY SESSION

The order of the remaining presentations to the Board was revised.  These minutes 

reflect the order of the reports presented during the afternoon session. 

The Chancellor called the afternoon session to order at 1:22 p.m.   

THE SMITHSONIAN NATIONAL CAMPAIGN

The Three Elements of

the Campaign Concept:

Case, Constituency, and

Staffing and Support

Secretary Clough gave the first of three scheduled briefings on the upcoming 

national campaign.  This presentation focused on the early stages of the campaign, 

including what is known about the Smithsonian’s donor base.  The campaign’s 

needs and priorities, including staffing plans, budgets, and funding mechanisms, 

will be reviewed during the June 2010 Regents’ meeting and the Board will be 

asked to endorse the initial campaign plan during its September 2010 meeting.   

Secretary Clough said that he previously was involved in four capital campaigns, 
21 

including two at Georgia Tech.  The Smithsonian’s campaign will provide significant 

funding for philanthropy, one of the four funding sources for the strategic plan.  The 

other funding sources will include Federal appropriations, research contracts, and 

business enterprises.  The concept for the Smithsonian’s campaign is based on 

three parts: case, constituency, and staffing and support.  The Secretary addressed 

each element. 

Case The Smithsonian is well‐positioned to make a case for increased funding using its 

strategic plan as the basis.  New resources are required to achieve the many 

important and forward‐thinking ideas addressed in the strategic plan.  

Strengthening the intellectual capital of the Institution, for example, can be 

achieved by funding new endowed positions.   

Constituency Secretary Clough presented a series of charts that demonstrated the Institution’s 

uneven fund‐raising history and its dependence on major gifts.  Annual fund raising 

during the 1990s raised approximately $40 million per year with no gifts over $10 

million.  Giving patterns began to change around 2000 and a new donor profile 

emerged.  Annual fund raising increased to approximately $110 million and the 

number of major gifts rose.  An all‐time high annual giving level of $205 million was 

reached in fiscal year 2000 with the receipt of several gifts of $5 million or more, 

including an $80 million gift from Kenneth H. Behring.  To reduce the inherent risk 

of depending on major gifts, the Smithsonian must increase donor relationships 

that support base funding while continuing to cultivate relationships that may 

result in major gifts.     

The Smithsonian has established a preliminary campaign goal of $1.5–2.0 billion.  

Based on a seven‐year capital campaign, the Smithsonian would need to raise $214 

million annually to reach a $1.5 billion goal and would need to raise $284 million 

annually to reach a total of $2.0 billion.  As noted, however, the highest annual 

amount raised to‐date is $205 million.   

It will be necessary to increase the Smithsonian’s donor base, which currently 

includes about 3,000 individual donors.  Campaign consultant Marts and Lundy 

performed an analysis of Smithsonian stakeholders, such as Smithsonian magazine 

subscribers, and identified 87,000 prospects with the capacity to give $25,000 or 

more.  In recognition of limitations on Smithsonian staff, resources, and time, the 

number of donor prospects was subsequently revised to 15,000–20,000.   

Staffing and Support The campaign plan calls for establishing solid relationships with new donors and 

developing these relationships into permanent donor commitments.  Marts and 

Lundy, however, determined that the Institution is not currently configured to 

implement this part of a capital campaign.  Additional staff and the purchase of a 

sophisticated computer‐based donor‐tracking system will be necessary.  Cultivating 

donors and determining their interests typically requires two to three visits and, 

because 85 percent of the campaign will be driven by the Smithsonian’s units and 

the remaining 15 percent by the central development office, unit directors will have 

to be engaged in the campaign process and unit development officers will need 

more training.  

Next Steps The development of the national campaign over the next six months, or the 

planning phase, will focus on clarifying the needs of the campaign, developing 
22 

messages around those needs, developing a budget, advancing efforts to procure a 

new computer system, refining policies, and hiring staff.  Noting that the timelines 

for the remaining two phases of the campaign were preliminary, the Secretary said 

that the next stage will be the quiet, or advance, phase.  This phase will be devoted 

to working with all major donor bases to raise at least half of the campaign monies 

over a three‐year period.  The final phase will include the campaign’s public roll‐

out, which will be completed in about 2017.   

Discussion Congresswoman Matsui asked if the total campaign goal included funding for the 

National Museum of African American History and Culture.  The Secretary said that 

the campaign will be comprehensive and that at least $200 million of the funds will 

be directed to the new museum.  Mr. McCarter noted that many national leadership 

groups, such as the Aspen Institute’s Henry Crown Fellowship Program and the 

Young Presidents’ Organization, are internationally recognized for their powerful 

and enthusiastic ability to spread philanthropic messages.  Such sources could 

enhance the Smithsonian’s ability to reach many more donor prospects. 

REPORT OF THE ADVANCEMENT COMMITTEE

The Advancement

Committee and the

National Campaign

Advancement Committee Chair Alan Spoon provided an update on the Committee’s 

oversight of the national campaign, saying that this is a momentous time for the 

Smithsonian and a propitious time to undertake the first pan‐institutional 

campaign.  Many Regents have been involved in capital campaigns, large and small, 

and the campaign will benefit from their experiences, as well as the demonstrated 

leadership and fund‐raising abilities of Secretary Clough.   

Mr. Spoon asked the Regents to consider five overarching questions as it reviews 

the development of the campaign over the course of upcoming Board meetings: 

 Are the campaign needs the right ones to realize the strategic plan? 

 Is the goal of the campaign achievable and reasonable?  

 Are the plans right for the campaign budget, funding models, staffing, 

infrastructure, and policies?  

 What are the roles and expectations for the Regents? 

 How do the Regents ensure that campaign gifts do not offset Federal 

appropriations? 

Can the Strategic Plan

be Realized with these

Campaign Needs?

Smithsonian leadership is working on a campaign needs assessment that will be 

aligned with the strategic plan.  The assessment is reviewing the Smithsonian’s 

ability to cultivate the number of donors required for a successful campaign.  It also 

is considering the timing of the campaign, as there are currently about 30 other 

organizations involved in capital campaigns with goals over $1 billion. 

Is the Campaign’s Goal

Achievable?   Achieving the campaign’s goals will depend upon clarifying the Smithsonian’s 

unique position as an institution that is dependent upon both public and private 

monies.  Those unfamiliar with the Smithsonian’s budget may think that increases 

in private funding will result in reduced Federal appropriations.   
23 

Is the Proposed

Infrastructure Right for

this Campaign?  

The success of the campaign will depend upon the rapid acquisition and 

implementation of a new computerized donor tracking system, as well as hiring 

development staff whose activities are solely directed towards fund‐raising 

activities.  The Regents discussed how to fund these critical parts of the campaign, 

as well as if this staff be permanent or incentivized.  The Board also discussed the 

development of a gift acceptance policy.   

What are the

Responsibilities of the

Regents?

The campaign will rely on the active and enthusiastic participation of the entire 

Board of Regents.  Unit directors will be expected to devote significant energies 

toward fund‐raising activities.  The 600‐plus members of the Smithsonian’s 

advisory boards are an untapped resource; consulting with this key stakeholder 

group will encourage their active participation in a pan‐Institutional capital 

campaign. 

How Can the

Smithsonian Ensure

that Campaign Gifts do

not Result in Reduced

Federal

Appropriations?

Protecting and increasing Federal support for the Smithsonian is essential to the 

Institution’s future, particularly with regard to facilities maintenance and 

infrastructure requirements.  Initiating and maintaining critical relationships and 

collaborations with members of Congress will support this vital funding source. 

Congressman Becerra said that investing in relationships with the members of the 

Congressional Appropriations Committees will likely yield the greatest return.  

Senator Cochran added that securing support from the Executive Branch will also 

be key to the campaign.  Noting that donors do not want to “make up” for decreases 

in Federal funding, Ms. Stonesifer said that the Smithsonian’s ability to secure 

increases in Federal appropriations over the last several years will support private 

fund‐raising efforts.  The Board also agreed that the Smithsonian should increase 

its goals for planned giving. 

Notable Gifts and

Proposed Gift Actions

Ms. Clark reviewed four notable gifts that support the goals of the strategic plan but 

do not require the approval of the Board.  Mr. Sant also announced that Peter Buck, 

the founder of Subway Restaurants, recently pledged $20 million in support of 

post‐doctoral fellowships at the National Museum of Natural History. 

Two gifts that required the Board’s approval were then presented.  The proposed 

motions were approved en bloc. 

See attached Resolutions 2010.04.02–2010.04.03 (Minutes of the Board of

Regents, Appendix A).

REPORT OF THE GOVERNANCE AND NOMINATING COMMITTEE

Governance and Nominating Committee Chair Shirley Jackson began the report of 

the Committee by discussing two important initiatives the Committee will be 

conducting over the coming months: the first triennial review of the Smithsonian’s 

governance reforms and the strengthening of the Board’s relationships with unit 

advisory boards. 

Review of the

Governance Reforms

As part of its governance reform agenda, the Board committed to conducting a 

review of the “implementation and efficacy” of the Smithsonian’s governance 
24 

reforms every three years.  Because June 2010 will be the three‐year anniversary of 

the Board’s adoption of the first set of governance reform recommendations, the 

Committee devoted part of its March, 8, 2010, meeting to planning for the initial 

triennial review.  The Committee looked for a methodology that will provide 

meaningful results and can take advantage of the ongoing work of the full Board 

and the Committee, as well as the Government Accountability Office (GAO), all three 

of which have been closely monitoring and recalibrating the Smithsonian’s 

governance reform efforts since 2007.   

The Committee decided that a two‐pronged review will be used.  First will be an 

assessment of how completely and successfully the 35 governance reform 

recommendations have been implemented.  Then, using the Independent Sector’s 

Principles for Good Governance and Ethical Practice, a gap analysis will be done.  

For any gaps found, the Committee will identify the appropriate steps to fill them.  

The Committee expects to review a staff report at its July 22, 2010, meeting and a 

final report will be presented to the Regents at their September 20, 2010, meeting. 

Strengthening

Relationships between

the Board of Regents

and Unit Advisory

Boards

The Committee is considering ways to strengthen the Board’s relationships with 

unit advisory boards.  Staff have been asked to identify structural improvements 

that will enhance the advisory boards’ ability to support the Board of Regents and 

their respective museums or research centers, as well as to work more effectively 

with each other.  The overall governance structure of the advisory boards is being 

reviewed and some improvements have been identified.  The Committee endorsed 

the idea that Regents should be encouraged to participate on unit advisory boards.  

Regents currently serving on unit advisory boards include Mr. Sant and Mr. 

Rubenstein (the Board of the National Museum of Natural History); Mr. Rubenstein, 

Congresswoman Matsui, and Senator Cochran (the Board of the National Museum 

of American History); Congresswoman Matsui (the Council of the National Museum 

of African American History and Culture); and Congressman Johnson (the Advisory 

Board of the National Air and Space Museum). 

One of the governance reforms recognized the importance of appointing

non‐Regents with relevant experience to Regents’ committees.  Over the past two 

years, 12 non‐Regents were appointed to five Regents’ committees: four on 

Advancement; one on Finance; four on Investment; two on Strategic Planning and 

Programs; and one on Facilities.  The non‐Regent members have been active and 

engaged participants and often bring a much‐appreciated unit‐based perspective to 

committee deliberations.  Accordingly, Investment Committee Chair David Silfen 

proposed that the Governance and Nominating Committee recommend the 

appointment of Timothy J. O’Neill, a partner at Goldman Sachs, to the Investment 

Committee.  Mr. Sant and Ms. Stonesifer noted their support for this appointment 

and the motion was approved by the Board. 

See attached Resolution 2010.04.04 (Minutes of the Board of Regents, Appendix A).

Advisory Board

Appointments

Dr. Jackson referred the Board to the biographies of candidates for appointment or

reappointment to seven advisory boards, noting that each candidate had received 

the support of the respective advisory board, museum, or unit director; Under 

Secretary with oversight responsibility; the Office of External Affairs; and the 

Secretary.  She highlighted the nomination of General Colin Powell to the Council of 

the National Museum of African American History and Culture.  Congressman 
25 

Becerra asked about the composition of the Smithsonian’s advisory boards with 

regard to diversity and requested a follow‐up report at the June 2010 Regents’ 

meeting.  The motions were then approved en bloc. 

See attached Resolutions 2010.04.05–2010.04.12 (Minutes of the Board of

Regents, Appendix A).

Establishing

Obligations of NonRegent Members of

Regents’ Committees

Dr. Jackson discussed a proposed bylaw amendment to codify the policy that non‐

Regent committee members should be considered “full and equal members” on the 

Regents’ committees.  She noted the possible ramifications of such a bylaw, 

particularly with regard to the application of the Regents’ ethical and financial 

disclosure obligations to non‐Regent committee members, as well as their ability to 

exercise the statutory and fiduciary obligations that the Regents possess.  The 

Committee concluded that non‐Regent committee members are, and should be, 

subject to the Regents’ Ethics Guidelines and financial disclosure obligations.  The 

Board discussed the proposed amendment and will vote on it by e‐mail ballot, as 

per bylaw requirements.   

Revising the Duties and

Responsibilities of the

Board Chair to

Strengthen

Communications with

Advisory Boards

The final topic concerned a proposed response to GAO’s December 2009 report on

the Board’s communications with Smithsonian advisory boards.  Among its 

observations, GAO recommended that communications between the Regents and 

the advisory boards be formally codified.  GAO was concerned that, without 

codification, there would be no guarantee that future chairs of the Board of Regents 

will continue the practices begun by former chair Roger Sant and continued by 

current Chair Patricia Stonesifer.  The Committee concluded that the most 

appropriate way to codify these responsibilities would be as a revision of the 

Chair’s position description and, for staff‐initiated actions, through amendments to 

their respective performance plans.  The Board approved the revised statement of 

the duties and responsibilities of the Chair. 

See attached Resolution 2010.04.13 (Minutes of the Board of Regents, Appendix A).

REPORT OF THE SMITHSONIAN NATIONAL BOARD 

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

Board had not met since the Regents’ January 2010 meeting.  The SNB will meet on 

April 22–24, 2010, and will devote part of its discussions to the national campaign.  

The SNB was originally set up for development purposes and members are looking 

forward to being actively involved in the campaign.  Many projects, such as the 

recently issued Web 2.0 grants, are funded through the SNB annual giving program 

and members also provide about $1 million annually to funds programs at the 

discretion of the Secretary.   

INSPIRING GENERATIONS THROUGH KNOWLEDGE AND 

DISCOVERY: HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE COLLECTIONS

Under Secretary for Science Eva Pell briefly commented on activities in two of the 
26 

Smithsonian’s science collections: the successful hatching of a chick to a rare New 

Zealand kiwi at the National Zoological Park and the National Museum of Natural 

History’s identification of a meteorite that recently landed in a medical office in 

Northern Virginia.  The Division of Mineral Studies has been studying the meteorite 

and hopes that it will become part of its Meteorite Collection.

Under Secretary for History Art and Culture Richard Kurin noted the Freer Gallery 

of Art’s recent acquisition of a 600‐year‐old Asian tea jar with a documented 

provenance; the National Museum of American History’s acquisition of First Lady 

Michelle Obama’s inaugural gown; and the donation of personal items of 

abolitionist Harriet Tubman, including a lace shawl that was a gift from Queen 

Victoria, to the National Museum of African American History and Culture.  

REPORT OF THE FACILITIES COMMITTEE

Facilities Committee Chair Robert Kogod reported that the Committee met on 

February 22, 2010, and discussed the Legacy Fund, the Smithsonian’s management 

of stimulus funds received from the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act, and 

the impact of the February 2010 snowstorm on the Institution’s facilities.   

The Committee expressed concern that Senator Dianne Feinstein (D‐CA) might 

rescind language in the appropriations bill that supports the Smithsonian’s ability 

to access Legacy Fund monies.  Although the Smithsonian has not raised the $30 

million considered necessary to access the funds, the Committee is hopeful that the 

appropriations language will remain unchanged. 

A major focus of the Committee’s meeting was the impact of the February 2010 

snowstorm on Smithsonian facilities.  The record‐breaking snowstorm, which 

closed the Federal government in Washington, D.C., for four days, led to the collapse 

of Garber Facility Building 21.  The facility housed artifacts from the National Air 

and Space Museum’s collection, some of which were damaged.  The situation 

demonstrated the importance of the Institution’s efforts over the last five years to 

provide appropriate long‐term, offsite storage for the collections.  The National 

Zoological Park sustained damage to some of its lightweight animal enclosures and 

the Arts and Industries Building experienced minor damage to its roof.  The 

Committee asked the Office of Facilities Engineering and Operations to provide a 

report on the Institution’s efforts to prepare for similar events in the future. 

REPORT OF THE AUDIT AND REVIEW COMMITTEE

Audit and Review Committee Chair John McCarter reported that the Committee met 

on April 7, 2010, and reviewed the Smithsonian’s fiscal year 2009 financial 

statements.  For the first time since the 2006 change in reporting standards, there 

were no materials weaknesses or significant deficiencies identified in the 

Smithsonian’s statements.  To mirror best practices in the private sector initiated 

by the Sarbanes‐Oxley Act, this year the Committee requested and received a 

statement from the Secretary and the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) providing 

assurances of the accuracy of the Smithsonian’s reporting and compliance with 
27 

applicable laws and regulations.  Mr. McCarter praised the work of the CFO and the 

Inspector General (IG) and commented on the depth of insight that the IG provides 

to the Institution.  He also noted a substantial reduction in prior year audit 

recommendations, which reflected a greater than 94 percent closure rate.   

In compliance with suggested rotation schedules, John Keenan, senior partner of 

the Smithsonian’s external auditors, KPMG LLP, will be replaced by Ellen Harrison 

as the senior auditor.  Mr. McCarter reported that the Committee will perform an 

annual review of the Smithsonian’s insurance program, and that work is 

progressing on efforts to resolve the Smithsonian’s internal controls deficiencies, 

but more remains to be done.  

The Committee proposed that the review of the new IRS Form 990 be delegated to 

the Committee and that all members of the Board receive an electronic copy of the 

return in August 2010.  The Board approved the motion. 

See attached Resolution 2010.04.14 (Minutes of the Board of Regents, Appendix A).

REVIEW OF GOVERNMENT RELATIONS: LEGISLATIVE ACTIVITIES 

AND ISSUES 

Director of Government Relations Nell Payne said there were no updates to the 

Review of Government Relations, which was included in the Regents’ meeting 

materials. 

REPORT OF THE GENERAL COUNSEL

As an update to her report in the meeting materials, General Counsel Judith 

Leonard said that, as of this point in fiscal year 2010, the Institution has received a 

total of 49 Requests for Smithsonian Information.  The Office of General Counsel 

has responded to 38, with an average response rate of 37.9 days.  

ADJOURNMENT

The afternoon session was adjourned at 3:15 p.m., after which the Board met in 

Executive Session.  The meeting of the Board of Regents was adjourned at 3:30 p.m. 

Respectfully Submitted, 

G. Wayne Clough 

Secretary 
APPENDIX A 

APPROVED RESOLUTIONS

APRIL 12, 2010, MEETING OF THE BOARD OF REGENTS

VOTED that the Board of Regents approves the minutes of the January 25, 2010, meeting of the 

Board of Regents.  [2010.04.01]   

VOTED that the Board of Regents creates and names the James F. Buhr Endowment to support 

charitable and educational purposes of the Smithsonian Institution.  [2010.04.02]    

VOTED that the Board of Regents recognizes the generosity of The Lunder Foundation and Peter 

and Paula Lunder to the Freer Gallery of Art and Arthur M. Sackler Galleries and approves naming 

the Lunder Consortium for Whistler Studies.  [2010.04.03]    

VOTED that the Board of Regents appoints Timothy J. O’Neill as a non‐Regent member to the 

Investment Committee.  [2010.04.04]    

VOTED that the Board of Regents appoints Douglas Ahlers, Edgar M. Cullman Jr., Brenda J. Gaines, 

Edward R. Hintz Jr., Sarah Anschutz Hunt, Dennis J. Keller, David S. Kidder, Sarah E. Nash, Robert C. 

Pohlad, and Deborah Wince‐Smith and reappoints Valerie Anders, Shelby M. Gans, Robert D. 

MacDonald, Theiline Pigott Scheumann, and Marna Del Mar Schnabel to the Smithsonian National 

Board for three‐year terms, all effective October 1, 2010.  [2010.04.05]    

VOTED that the Board of Regents appoints David Rockwell to the Board of Trustees of Cooper‐

Hewitt, National Design Museum for a three‐year term effective immediately.  [2010.04.06]    

VOTED that the Board of Regents appoints James R. Cargill and Bruce R. McCaw to the Board of the 

National Air and Space Museum for three‐year terms effective immediately.  [2010.04.07]    

VOTED that the Board of Regents appoints Camille Olivia Hanks Cosby, Phillippe El‐Asmar, and 

Christine Matilda Warnke to the Board of the National Museum of African Art for three‐year terms 

effective immediately.  [2010.04.08]    

VOTED that the Board of Regents appoints Colin L. Powell to the Council of the National Museum of 

African American History and Culture for a three‐year term effective immediately.  [2010.04.09]    

VOTED that the Board of Regents, as provided for in Section II.A.2 of the Bylaws of the National 

Science Resources Center and contingent upon the approval of the Governing Board of the National 

Academy of Sciences, appoints Bruce Alberts, Phyllis Buchanan, Thomas Carroll, Sven‐Olof 

Holmgren, Kevin Huffman, David Jasmin, Dean Kamen, Marc Kirschner, Lydia Logan, Eric C. Nastasi, 

Jim Peacock, Kameron Perez‐Verdia, Petra Skiebe‐Corrette, and Robert Woolard to the Advisory 

Board of the National Science Resources Center for three‐year terms effective June 1, 2010.  

[2010.04.10]    
2 

VOTED that the Board of Regents appoints William H. Lomicka to the Advisory Board of the 

National Zoological Park for a three‐year term effective immediately.  [2010.04.11]    

VOTED that the Board of Regents appoints C. Jason Payne to the Advisory Board of the Smithsonian 

Environmental Research Center for a three‐year term effective immediately.  [2010.04.12]    

VOTED that the Board of Regents amends its Bylaws to include the following: 

4.12 Appointment of Citizen Committee Members

The Board of Regents may approve the appointment by the Chancellor of persons who are 

not Regents as Citizen Members of standing or special committees with duties and 

responsibilities as defined by the committee charters and subject to review and, as 

appropriate, approval by the Regents.  [2010.04.13] 

VOTED that the Board of Regents adopts the proposed revised statement of the duties and 

responsibilities of the Chair of the Board of Regents.  [2010.04.14] 

VOTED that the Board of Regents delegates the review of the Smithsonian Institution’s annual 

Internal Revenue Service Form 990 return to the Board’s Audit and Review Committee prior to its 

filing with the IRS.  [2010.04.15]