MINUTES OF THE

NOVEMBER 17, 2008, MEETING

OF THE

BOARD OF REGENTS

OF THE

SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION
SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION

Minutes of the Meeting of the Board of Regents

November 17, 2008

Table of Contents

Page 

Attendance .................................................................................................................................................................. 1 

Opening Remarks ..................................................................................................................................................... 2 

Report of the Chair ................................................................................................................................................... 2 

Report of the Secretary .......................................................................................................................................... 3 

Report of the Executive Committee .................................................................................................................. 8 

Report of the Governance and Nominating Committee ........................................................................... 9 

Report of the Advancement Committee ....................................................................................................... 10 

Report of the Compensation and Human Resources Committee ...................................................... 13 

Report of the Strategic Planning and Programs Committee ................................................................ 14 

Report of the Investment Committee ............................................................................................................ 16 

Annual Public Meeting ......................................................................................................................................... 18 

Appendix A: Approved Resolutions 
MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF REGENTS

November 17, 2008

ATTENDANCE

This regularly scheduled meeting of the Board of Regents was held on Monday, November 17, 

2008.  The morning session, which included an executive session, was held in the Executive 

Conference Room of the National Museum of Natural History.  The afternoon meeting in the 

National Museum of Natural History’s Baird Auditorium was the first annual public Board 

meeting.  Board Chair Roger Sant presided over both sessions as the Chancellor of the 

Smithsonian, Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr., was unable to attend either session.  The morning 

session was called to order at 9:14 a.m.  Present during the meeting were: 

Xavier Becerra 1

Eli Broad  

Thad Cochran 2

Christopher Dodd 

Phillip Frost

Shirley Ann Jackson  

Sam Johnson 

Robert P. Kogod 3

Patrick Leahy 4

John W. McCarter Jr. 5

Doris Matsui  

Roger W. Sant 

Alan G. Spoon 

Patricia Q. Stonesifer

L. Hardwick Caldwell, Smithsonian National Board Chair 

David Silfen, Investment Committee Chair 6

Vice President Richard B. Cheney was unable to attend either session.  

Also present were:  

G. Wayne Clough, Secretary  

Charles Alcock, Acting Under Secretary for  

  Science  

Richard Kurin, Under Secretary for History,  

  Art, and Culture  

Alison McNally, Under Secretary for Finance  

  and Administration  

Patricia L. Bartlett, Executive Assistant to the  

  Secretary  

Amy Chen, Chief Investment Officer 

Virginia B. Clark, Director of External Affairs  

John K. Lapiana, Chief of Staff to the Regents  

Evelyn Lieberman, Director of  

  Communications and Public Affairs  

Alice C. Maroni, Chief Financial Officer  

Tom Ott, President of Smithsonian Enterprises  

Nell Payne, Director of the Office of 

  Government Relations 

A. Sprightley Ryan, Inspector General  

Marsha S. Shaines, Acting General Counsel  

Barbara Feininger, Senior Writer‐Editor, Office of  

the Regents  

Grace L. Jaeger, Program Officer, Office of the 

Regents  

John Yahner, Speechwriter to the Secretary  

Jeffrey P. Minear, Counselor to the Chief Justice  

Marie Fishpaw, Assistant to the Vice President  

T.A. Hawks, Assistant to Senator Cochran  

Colin P. McGinnis, Assistant to Senator Dodd  

Kevin McDonald, Assistant to Senator Leahy  

Melody Gonzales, Assistant to Congressman  

Becerra  

David Heil, Assistant to Congressman Johnson  

Alexis Marks, Assistant to Congresswoman 

Matsui 

_____________________________________________________ 

1   Mr. Becerra was unable to participate in the morning session (including the consideration of all proposed motions).  2   Senator Cochran arrived at 9:40 a.m. and was present for the consideration of all proposed motions.    3   Mr. Kogod recused himself from the action to approve proposed motion 2008.11.05.  4   Senator Leahy arrived at 9:20 a.m. and was present for the consideration of all proposed motions.  5   Mr. McCarter was present for the consideration of all proposed motions, with the exception of motion 2008.11.09.   6   Mr. Silfen was present for the Report of the Investment Committee.  
2 

Prior to the morning plenary session, the Board took a tour of the National Museum of 

American History, which will open to the public on November 21, 2008.  The morning 

session concluded at 11:42 a.m., after which an executive session was held until about 

12:25 p.m.  The annual public meeting of the Board convened at 1:30 p.m. and 

concluded at 3:30 p.m.  The following matters were discussed: 

   

MORNING PLENARY SESSION

OPENING REMARKS

Board Chair Roger Sant greeted the attendees and, on behalf of the Board, expressed 

appreciation for the opportunity to tour the newly renovated National Museum of 

American History.  He then directed the Regents’ attention to their supplemental 

agenda materials, including the timed agenda for the morning session, and reminded 

the Regents that the abbreviated morning session would include time to prepare for 

the public meeting. 

Plans for the  

12th Secretary’s

Installation  

REPORT OF THE CHAIR

Mr. Sant commented that, like the public meeting that afternoon, the January 26, 2009, 

Board of Regents’ meeting would be an historic event, as Dr. G. Wayne Clough will be 

formally installed as the 12th Secretary of the Smithsonian.  Although the details of the 

installation were not final, he advised the members of the Board that the event would 

include a formal academic procession. 

New Ex Officio

Regent: Vice

President–Elect

Joseph Biden

He then reminded the Board that the recent election of Vice President–elect Joseph 

Biden would result in a new ex officio member of the Board of Regents.  Mr. Sant said 

that the Board would like to encourage the active engagement of Senator Biden in the 

Board’s activities, including the forthcoming installation of Secretary Clough.  He 

reported that preliminary responses from Senator Biden’s staff had been very 

encouraging, adding that the Congressional Regents might be called upon to 

encourage his involvement.  As Vice President Cheney had been unable to attend 

Board of Regents’ meetings, his representatives, Neil Patel and Marie Fishpaw, were 

thanked for their participation. 

Duties of the

Board Chair   Mr. Sant reported that he recently had provided Chair‐Elect Patricia Stonesifer with an 

in‐depth review of the Chair’s duties.  Among the issues discussed was the ex officio 

status of the Chair on all Regents’ committees.  Mr. Sant requested that Ms. Stonesifer 

review this commitment, the demands of which had proven to be impracticable given 

the increased number of both Board committees and their meetings. 

Anticipated

Governance Reform

Milestone  

Mr. Sant said that the January 26, 2009, meeting of the Board of Regents also will 

serve as a milestone in the Smithsonian’s efforts to reform its governance.  He 

reported that all 25 recommendations of the Independent Review Committee were on 
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track to be completed by that date.  The Smithsonian’s financial controls had proven to 

be the most difficult governance reform to address.  Mr. Sant thanked Audit and 

Review Committee Chair John McCarter and Chief Financial Officer Alice Maroni for 

their diligent efforts to identify the controls that require immediate attention, those 

that demand less, and those that are fully compliant with the stated goals and 

standards of the Institution. 

Engaging the

Smithsonian

Community

Mr. Sant next spoke of the Regents’ visits to various Smithsonian units, noting that 

these activities recognize the Smithsonian’s mission and role in American society, as 

well as underscore the importance of the Board’s work.  He thanked Senator Dodd for 

his concerted effort to personally tour as many museums and other Smithsonian units 

as possible in the coming months.  At the time of this meeting, the Senator had met 

with the directors and staff of seven museums, including the National Air and Space 

Museum, where staff familiarized him on issues related to a proposed deaccession, 

and the Anacostia Community Museum. 

Mr. Sant then read an e‐mail from Anacostia Community Museum Director Camille 

Akeju to her staff, thanking them for their contributions to Senator Dodd’s visit.  Ms. 

Akeju was very appreciative of the strong interest and support expressed by Senator 

and Mrs. Dodd, as well as the Senator’s assistant and driver. 

Regents’

Predecessors   The Board expressed its interest in two draft documents included in the Regents’ 

agenda books.  The papers provide an overview of the lineage underlying each Board 

appointment, noting, for instance, that Dr. Jackson’s position is that formerly held by 

Alexander Graham Bell from 1898 to 1922.  The documents are part of the “Regents’ 

History Project” under development by the Office of the Regents and the Smithsonian 

Archives.   

REPORT OF THE SECRETARY 

Support from

Regents Emeriti

Secretary Clough reported on the relationships he continued to foster with 

Smithsonian stakeholders, adding that he had been contacted by Regents emeriti 

Howard Baker and Norman Mineta, who both offered him their support. 

Documenting the

2008 Presidential

Election in the

Smithsonian

Collections

The Secretary expressed his appreciation to the staff and contractors of the newly 

renovated National Museum of American History, noting the considerable efforts that 

contributed to the long‐awaited reopening of the Museum.  He reported that American 

History curators Harry Rubenstein and Larry Bird had been engaged in documenting 

the recent campaign season and election, collecting, for example, campaign 

memorabilia for the Museum’s extensive political history collection.  The election of 

the nation’s first African American president also had provided prodigious material 

for the growing collection of the National Museum of African American History and 

Culture.  Secretary Clough said that Museum Director Lonnie Bunch had secured 

materials from the Barack Obama Virginia campaign headquarters, adding that the 

absence of a physical building had not impeded the Museum’s energetic development 

of its collection. 
4 

Smithsonian Visits The Secretary then updated the Board on visitation statistics to Smithsonian 

museums, exhibitions, Web sites, and other avenues of contact.  In fiscal year 2008 the 

Smithsonian recorded 24.9 million physical visits to its museums and the National 

Zoo, reflecting a 2% drop from fiscal year 2007.  Smithsonian Web sites also recorded 

a drop in visits.  There were 173 million Web visits in fiscal year 2008, a 6% drop from 

fiscal year 2007 visits.  Secretary Clough noted, however, that the 183 million Web site 

visits logged in fiscal year 2007 reflected a significant 26% increase in Web visits from 

fiscal year 2006.  The Secretary also pointed out that, since that time, the Smithsonian 

has engaged in other Web vehicles, such as the photo‐sharing Web site Flickr, that 

expand the public’s exposure and access to the Institution but do not record 

Smithsonian‐specific Web visits.  He added that the Smithsonian’s involvement in the 

production of two of the top 10 most‐anticipated movies — Transformers 2 and Night

at the Museum II: Battle of the Smithsonian [both working titles] — will likely benefit 

Smithsonian visitation.  

Secretary Clough also noted that, in fiscal year 2008, Smithsonian Institution Traveling 

Exhibitions attracted 5.15 million visitors to 58 traveling exhibitions in 510 locations 

throughout all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, and American Samoa.  In 

addition, he said that the Smithsonian had 162 affiliate museums in 40 states, Panama, 

and Puerto Rico. 

With regard to his own record of Smithsonian‐related visits, the new Secretary 

provided a handout that outlined his visits with key Smithsonian stakeholders.  To 

date, he had met with 19 members of Congress, more than 31 Smithsonian units, and 

many of the Smithsonian’s advisory boards, including a strategic‐planning program 

that was conducted with the Smithsonian National Board.  An all‐staff meeting was 

well‐attended and positively received; it also was available via Webcast for those who 

could not attend in person.  The Secretary said that he looks forward to being 

introduced to the rest of the Smithsonian units and continues to schedule visits, such 

as a late January 2009 trip to the Smithsonian Tropical Research Center in Panama, to 

familiarize himself with the extensive community that comprises the Smithsonian. 

The Secretary said that he continues to meet with Smithsonian donors and cultivate 

the support of these critical stakeholders.  Accompanied by Director of External Affairs 

Ginny Clark, he recently had meetings in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Denver, 

Chattanooga, and New York City.  Over the course of these visits, as well as through 

gatherings in Washington, the Secretary met with donors from more than 15 different 

Smithsonian units.  He said these visits, which he looks forward to continuing, and the 

Smithsonian’s ability to raise $135.6 million in fiscal year 2008 have engendered a 

cautious optimism about the Smithsonian’s ability to weather the current 

international economic crisis.  

Outreach to the New

Administration

Secretary Clough then discussed the Institution’s initiatives to engage the forthcoming 

Administration with the Smithsonian.  He spoke of the Smithsonian’s interest in 

contributing to the nation’s efforts to address problems of national and global 

importance, such as climate change, biodiversity, and other scientific and cultural 

issues.  Office of Government Relations Director Nell Payne reported that contacts  
5 

with the new administration, especially with the office of Vice President–elect Joseph 

Biden, have been and continue to be developed.  She said that preliminary feedback 

was quite positive and that discussions already were under way with regard to how 

the Smithsonian can effectively work with the administration.  

The Secretary also commented on the proposed Economic Stimulus Bill.  He reported 

that, in response to a request from the Office of Management and Budget, the 

Smithsonian had provided a $400 million project list that included the revitalization  

of the Arts and Industries Building and energy‐efficient upgrades.  Although some 

$270 million of the proposed agenda items are ready to be implemented, action on the 

proposed bill has been postponed until 2009.  He added that the guidance and support 

of the Congressional Regents will likely be needed to successfully advance these 

critical funding requests in the new Congress. 

Staff and Unit

Updates

Progress on the appointment of several senior staff appointments was then discussed.  

Secretary Clough reported that, following a very competitive national search, Tom Ott 

was appointed President of Smithsonian Enterprises.  The Secretary said that searches 

for all senior positions were under way and that he was optimistic that the search 

process for the next General Counsel would soon conclude.  He reported that the 

Smithsonian had received an extremely large number of applications for that position. 

The Secretary noted that the Smithsonian had successfully vacated its leased space at 

1111 North Capitol Street in the District of Columbia and that support operations 

previously based there were successfully relocated to the 3400 Pennsy Drive facility 

in Landover, Maryland.  The move was completed ahead of schedule and on budget. 

He then gave a brief overview of Smithsonian exhibitions currently on view.  Among 

the recently opened exhibitions cited were the new Sant Ocean Hall, Fritz Scholder:

Indian/Not Indian at the National Museum of the American Indian, and Alphabetilately:

An Alphabet of Philately at the National Postal Museum.  The Secretary spoke of the 

success of the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden’s after‐hours events, which 

have attracted large crowds of young people, and the National Museum of African 

American History’s exhibition Road to Freedom, on view in the S. Dillon Ripley Center. 

Strategic Planning Noting that Congressional Regent Doris Matsui would provide a more comprehensive 

update on the development of the Smithsonian’s strategic plan, Secretary Clough said 

that the initiative had been launched and that some $400,000 had been raised to offset 

the project’s costs.   

Death of Curator

David Shayt

The Secretary paused to comment on the death of National Museum of American 

History curator David Shayt.  Secretary Clough said that, from crayons to coffins, the 

dedicated curator had assembled vast collections of objects that reflect the American 

experience and recognize the intrinsic value of objects to mankind.   

Giant Magellan

Telescope

The final topic in the Secretary’s presentation was the Smithsonian’s participation in 

the Giant Magellan Telescope project (GMT).  The Secretary introduced Dr. Charles  
6 

Alcock, Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO) Director and Acting Under 

Secretary for Science, who contributed to the discussion. 

The development of a giant segmented mirror telescope was recently identified by the 

National Academy of Science as the nation’s next top priority with regard to the future 

of astronomy and astrophysics.  When completed, GMT will offer scientists an 

unprecedented ability to explore the universe by supporting ground‐breaking 

research into issues such as the nature of dark energy, dark matter, and the origins of 

the universe.  The telescope’s 25‐meter diameter mirror will be 100 times more 

sensitive than the Smithsonian’s largest existing telescope (the MMT Telescope) and 

will provide images that are 10 times sharper than those captured by the Hubble 

Space Telescope.  As one of three giant telescopes in the world, and one of two based 

in the United States and funded in part by the National Science Foundation, GMT will 

strengthen SAO’s position as one of the top three world leaders in astronomy and 

astrophysics. 

The development of GMT has been supported by an eight‐member partnership of 

universities and research institutions that includes SAO and its close associate, the 

Harvard College Observatory.  The project’s governing consortium has developed a 

founders’ agreement business document, established the partnership’s status as a 

501(c)(3) organization, and created “pay to play” guidelines that link observation 

allowances to financial contributions.   

The $1.3 billion price tag for GMT will provide for the telescope’s construction and 

operating costs for 30 years.  The National Science Foundation will be requested to 

provide 25 percent of the funding for GMT and the remaining costs will be split among 

the partners and paid over time.  The 10–15% portion of the costs required of the 

Smithsonian and Harvard would be provided by monies secured through private fund 

raising and increases in Federal funding over the course of 15 years.  Secretary Clough 

reminded the Board that it had approved support for GMT in its last three budget 

cycles (most recently in the fiscal year 2010 budget) and that the project remained a 

top priority for the Smithsonian.  He also noted that funding for GMT had yet to be 

approved by the Office of Management and Budget.   

The Secretary said that the next stage of the partnership’s development is contingent 

upon the signing of the GMT Founders’ Agreement.  He said that all the founding 

partners but the Smithsonian had signed the agreement, which does not obligate the 

Smithsonian to commit money to the project.  He also made clear that, out of respect 

for the incoming Secretary, Acting Secretary Cristián Samper had withheld the 

Smithsonian’s commitment to this latest stage of the partnership in order to allow 

Secretary Clough sufficient time to familiarize himself with this important project.   

The Board agreed that the realization of GMT would build upon the Smithsonian’s 

record of world‐renowned accomplishments in the fields of astronomy and 

astrophysics.  It also recognized that SAO researchers, 13 of whom are members of the 

National Academies, are uniquely positioned to both increase knowledge about the 

universe and share such findings with the general population. 
7 

Regarding the costs associated with the project, Dr. Alcock explained that cost of GMT 

is in fact a great value; GMT is anticipated to cost approximately $300–400 million less 

than the other giant telescope under development at the California Institute of 

Technology.  He also noted that the design of the Caltech giant telescope is radically 

different than that of the GMT. 

Dr. Alcock then described SAO’s successful track record in executing such large‐scale 

projects, as well as its demonstrated fund‐raising abilities.  The partnership between 

Chandra X‐Ray Observatory and the National Air and Space Administration, which 

provides $52 million in funding to SAO each year, was cited as one of several 

successful collaborations.  The Submillimeter Array project on Mauna Kea in Hawaii is 

now recognized as the premiere instrument of its kind in the world.  Dr. Alcock also 

said that SAO had recently received a $2.8 million grant from the Gordon and Betty 

Moore Foundation.  He noted that the California‐based foundation rarely awards 

grants to organizations on the East Coast. 

Dr. Alcock acknowledged that the original plans for the development of GMT, which 

call for $133 million in Smithsonian funds over the course of 30 years and the launch 

of its construction phase in five years, may need to be postponed in light of the current 

economic crisis.  He explained that the Smithsonian’s commitment to the Founders’ 

Agreement is intended to confirm the Smithsonian’s position in the future 

development of GMT and that the Founders’ Agreement is a non‐binding agreement 

that, should it prove necessary, would allow the Smithsonian to withdraw from the 

project. 

The Board acknowledged that, like other important initiatives, the initial investment 

in GMT will be overshadowed by its long‐term benefits.  The Regents again expressed 

their support for the project.  After Mr. Sant made clear that a formal approval was not 

required from the Board, the Board agreed to back the Secretary’s decision to proceed 

with the planning of the GMT.  It also continued to discuss the initiative. 

Secretary Clough noted that the GMT project resonates with the Smithsonian’s origins 

as a science institution.  He said that the Smithsonian has become known primarily as 

an organization of museums and that its leadership role in global research initiatives 

needs to be made clear to the public.  Senator Leahy agreed, adding that enhanced 

public knowledge of the Smithsonian’s critical research activities would support the 

Institution’s fund‐raising efforts. 

Mr. McCarter reminded the Board that, with the nation’s overarching infrastructure 

needs, funding for the GMT project would likely be difficult to secure.  Secretary 

Clough said that the project will allow time for the Smithsonian to carefully address 

associated funding issues.  Secretary Clough also said that he had asked three key 

questions when first introduced to the GMT initiative:  

• Is this SAO’s top priority? 

• Is there an exit strategy if the Smithsonian must withdraw? 
8 

• Is this project worth the reprioritization of other Smithsonian initiatives, if 

such measures prove necessary?  

The Secretary reported that the answer in each case was a resounding “yes.”   

Mr. Spoon said that the GMT project addresses “threshold” issues wherein an 

organization must maintain its leadership position or concede that it will drop to a 

lower tier of influence.  He noted that the cutting edge nature of the GMT project is 

representative of the hallmark achievements for which the Smithsonian is known.  Ms. 

Stonesifer added that the Smithsonian’s strategy should be to fund the very best of its 

initiatives and that the GMT project clearly meets that standard.   

Dr. Frost commented that an overview (“map”) of the Smithsonian’s top initiatives 

would help prioritize its commitments.  Each project’s goals, required tools, funding 

needs, and position within the overall organization would be identified.  Ms. Stonesifer 

agreed that each of the Smithsonian’s disciplines would benefit from this exercise.  

Dr. Jackson concluded the discussion by noting that the development of the 

Smithsonian’s strategic plan includes the prioritization of its commitments.  She said 

that the strategic plan would provide a natural vehicle to prioritize the Smithsonian’s 

initiatives, as well as move the GMT project forward.   

REPORT OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Executive Committee Chair Roger Sant reported on the activities of the Committee.  

The Committee had last met on November 6, 2008, to review the proposed agenda for 

the November 17, 2008, Board of Regents’ meeting, including plans for the afternoon 

public meeting. 

Mr. Sant said that the Committee approved the morning meeting agenda and reviewed 

the plans for the public meeting.  He said that, whereas preliminary plans had been 

made to conduct a topic‐specific public meeting, the Chancellor proposed a more open 

format that would allow the audience to express its questions and concerns more 

freely.  The Committee agreed that the Chancellor’s suggestion would better support 

the Regents’ interest in engaging with its stakeholders and, as reported by Mr. Sant, 

grew increasingly enthusiastic about the public meeting as the discussion progressed. 

An Executive Committee action was then reported.  Mr. Sant explained that the 

Committee previously had agreed, as part of his compensation package, to reimburse 

Secretary Clough for relocation expenses, pursuant to Smithsonian policy.  The final 

moving expenses totaled less than $14,500, more than two‐thirds of which was paid 

for by Georgia Tech by prior agreement with Dr. Clough.  Of the remaining fees, the 

Smithsonian Comptroller determined that, according to Smithsonian policy, 

approximately $2,000 could not be reimbursed.  Mr. Sant said that the Executive 

Committee, because of the small amount at issue, decided to waive Smithsonian policy 

in this instance and pay the remainder of the relocation expenses in full. 
9 

The minutes of the September 22, 2008, Board of Regents’ meeting were then 

presented for approval.  Ms. Stonesifer commented that the revised format of the 

minutes supported the Board’s efforts to make its actions clear and transparent.  The 

minutes were approved. 

See attached Resolution 2008.11.01 (Minutes of the Board of Regents, Appendix A).

Update on FOIA

REPORT OF THE GOVERNANCE AND NOMINATING COMMITTEE

Governance and Nominating Committee Chair Shirley Ann Jackson presented the 

report of the Committee.  She said that the Committee anticipated that it would 

present a revised FOIA policy to the Board at its January 2009 meeting and asked 

Acting General Counsel Marsha Shaines to update the Regents on the status of the 

Smithsonian’s efforts to revise its information disclosure process with respect to FOIA.

Ms. Shaines reminded the Board that approximately one year ago the Smithsonian 

implemented a revised FOIA policy that was not well‐received by FOIA advocacy 

groups.  Since that time, the Smithsonian has undertaken a concerted effort to revise 

its policy to adhere more closely to FOIA, which has included multiple reviews and 

revisions, as well as numerous meetings with requester groups and key members of 

Congress, including staff from the offices of Senators Feinstein and Grassley.  Lydia 

Griggsby, the Chief Counsel for Privacy and Information Policy for the Senate Judiciary 

Committee, has provided considerable assistance to this process.  The comments and 

concerns of each stakeholder group were carefully considered and incorporated into a 

revised document that more closely reflects FOIA while protecting unique 

Smithsonian information that must be exempted from disclosure. 

Ms. Shaines reported that the revised document was now with Ms. Griggsby for final 

review.  She said that a meeting also would be conducted later in the week with a 

House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform staff member to assure that 

all comments have been received from the House, as well as the Senate.  The revised 

policy will then be considered by the Governance and Nominating Committee at its 

December 2009 meeting, after which it will be presented to the Board for its approval. 

Secretary Clough thanked Ms. Shaines, along with Assistant General Counsel Craig 

Blackwell, for their contributions to this project.  He also acknowledged the efforts of 

Executive Assistant to the Secretary Patty Bartlett and Director of Government 

Relations Nell Payne for their work with requestor groups and Congressional staff.  

Mr. Sant added that the development of the revised Smithsonian policy has been a 

model for how such projects should be conducted.  Senator Leahy added that these 

efforts should assist the policy’s anticipated review by the Senate Judiciary Committee.

Nomination of New

Citizen Regent

Dr. Jackson then introduced the nomination of a new citizen Regent for the Board’s 

consideration, noting that a second candidate would likely be presented to the Board 

at its January 2009 meeting.  Providing background on the process by which the 

Committee reached its decision, she reminded the Board that the Committee had  
10 

retained the services of search firm Isaacson, Miller to strengthen the candidate pool, 

vet potential nominees, and help the Committee “close the deal.” 

She said that since the Regents’ September meeting the search firm had interviewed 

Regents, senior staff, and outside stakeholders to identify both individual candidates 

and the key skill sets desired in the next two Regents.  The Board’s recent efforts to 

establish the duties and expectations for Regents, as well as areas of strength and 

weakness in the skill sets of current Board members, aided in the firm’s efforts. 

Dr. Jackson reported that the Committee conducted two conference calls with 

Isaacson, Miller, the Secretary, and senior staff to discuss and narrow down the lists of 

potential nominees.  Two short lists, each with three ranked candidates, were created; 

they included candidates who possessed either great depth in substantive areas 

related to the Smithsonian’s mission or a strong commitment to philanthropy and/or 

exceptional and creative business acumen.  Dr. Jackson said that each candidate’s 

ranking was determined by characteristics determined to be most beneficial to the 

Board.  

The Committee determined that it would recommend the nomination of David M. 

Rubenstein, the Co‐Founder and Managing Director of The Carlyle Group, to the Board 

for its consideration and approval.  Dr. Jackson noted that, in addition to his successful 

business career, Mr. Rubenstein possesses extensive national and international 

government experience and is a recognized philanthropist who serves on the advisory 

boards of the National Museum of American History and the National Museum of 

Natural History.  She added that the Committee anticipates that its next candidate will 

possess exceptionally strong academic credentials. 

The Regents agreed that the addition of Mr. Rubenstein would greatly enhance the 

composition of the Board.  It also was noted that Mr. Rubenstein had expressed his 

willingness and enthusiasm to serve on the Board if so asked.  The motion was 

approved, with recusals from Messrs. Sant and Kogod because of their prior 

associations with The Carlyle Group. 

See attached Resolution 2008.11.02 (Minutes of the Board of Regents, Appendix A).

Overview of

Smithsonian FundRaising Activities

REPORT OF THE ADVANCEMENT COMMITTEE

Advancement Committee Chair Alan Spoon updated the Board on the Committee’s 

activities, including the topics discussed during its recent meeting.  Mr. Spoon 

reported that the Committee reviewed the Smithsonian’s fiscal year 2008 fund‐raising 

results; fiscal year 2009 fund‐raising goals; pending gifts to the Smithsonian; the 

upcoming national campaign; and the Institution’s policy with regard to the placement 

of outside entities’ logos and links on Smithsonian Web sites.  He then called on 

Director of External Affairs Ginny Clark. 

As Secretary Clough had recently reported, Ms. Clark said that the Smithsonian had 

successfully raised $135.6 million during fiscal year 2008, which was 18% above its 
11 

goal.  Several museums’ fund‐raising achievements were noted, including the National 

Museum of Natural History ($26.2 million), the National Air and Space Museum  

($21.5 million), and the National Museum of African American History and Culture 

($12.2 million), which was especially noteworthy as construction for that museum’s 

building is in the planning stages. 

Ms. Clark said that the Smithsonian had received 24 gifts of at least $1 million, of 

which three were first‐time donors.  She noted that new donors at these levels, 

coupled with loyal donors who will increase the level of their giving or continue to 

give at such high levels, will be essential to the success of the upcoming national 

campaign. 

Legacy Fund Update With respect to the Legacy Fund, Ms. Clark said that the Smithsonian had received 551 

gifts totaling $305,000 over three months through advisory board appeals and online 

fund raising, of which all but $61,000 had been secured through the support of 

generous members of the Smithsonian’s body of advisory committees.  It was noted 

that Secretary Clough had sent a letter to the fund’s co‐author, Senate Committee on 

Rules and Administration Chairman Senator Dianne Feinstein, to advise the Senator of 

the Smithsonian’s efforts.  The Committee agreed that Secretary Clough should 

continue to talk with Senator Feinstein about the spirit of the Fund as a vehicle by 

which the Smithsonian could secure additional Federal funding and relaxing the 

restrictions on which gifts are eligible to be credited to the Fund.  It was reported that 

the Senator was planning to visit the Smithsonian.  It also was noted that the 

chairmanship of the Committee on Rules and Administration will likely change with 

the incoming administration.  

Fiscal Year 2009

Fund­Raising Goals

With respect to fiscal year 2009, Ms. Clark said that the Smithsonian had established a 

fund‐raising goal of $120 million and that, as of October 30, 2008, the Institution had 

raised $3.75 million, which  was about equal to that sum raised at this time a year ago.  

She noted that the fiscal year 2009 goal had been set with regard to the current 

economic climate, adding that her office was working closely with the individual 

museums to establish flexible but realistic fund‐raising goals.

Consideration of

Five Proposed Gift

Agreements

Ms. Clark then presented five proposed gift agreements for the Regents’ consideration, 

stating that all conform to Smithsonian policies and procedures.  Additional 

information was provided about three of the agreements.  An overview of a recently 

signed gift agreement from Airbus had been included in an updated information 

packet given to the Regents that morning, as that agreement had been finalized over 

the previous weekend.  It was noted that a second agreement with philanthropist and 

Board nominee David Rubenstein had been made long before Mr. Rubenstein’s name 

had been offered for consideration as a potential Regent.  Ms. Clark also made clear 

that the signing of the Clarice Smith gift agreement was pending, as the donor was out 

of the country.  She said that that agreement would be brought back to the Board for 

its review if any unforeseen changes arose. 

A motion to approve the five proposed gift agreements was presented, seconded, and 

approved.  Because of a personal relationship with the donor, Mr. Kogod recused  
12 

himself from the vote on the proposed gift to create the Clarice Smith American Art 

Education Initiative. 

See attached Resolutions 2008.11.03–2008.11.07 (Minutes of the Board of Regents,

Appendix A).

Development of the

National Campaign   Mr. Spoon then updated the Board on the development of a national fund‐raising 

campaign for the Smithsonian.  He said that planning for the campaign had included 

the careful articulation and balancing of the campaign’s priorities and ambitions with 

plans for its execution, including the resources needed to develop both the campaign’s 

blueprint and its execution. 

He said that planning for the campaign was continuing apace and that a case 

statement was being developed.  Mr. Spoon said that the campaign’s plans will include 

the deliberate consideration and balance of the needs and goals of the overall 

Smithsonian and those of its individual units.  The campaign will first launch with a 

quiet fund‐raising stage. 

Ms. Clark then explained that the selection of an outside campaign counsel was as 

almost complete.  The desired attributes of the counsel include experience in the 

development of campaigns of at least $1 billion, campaigns for cultural organizations, 

and campaigns for multi‐cultural organizations.  The selected firm will assist with 

planning and preparation efforts, provide benchmarking analysis, and conduct 

evaluations regarding the campaign’s structure, staffing, and allocation of resources, 

as well as assist with the necessary policies that must be in place.  Ms. Clark said that 

the selection review process had followed Smithsonian contracting policy.  She noted 

that she anticipated that the selected firm would be on board over the next month and 

that an internal assessment would be launched.   

She also reported that the selection of a campaign director was nearly complete.  She 

said that the Secretary was scheduled to interview the finalists the following week and 

that the selected candidate would likely start by the beginning of January 2009. 

Ms. Clark said that the Advancement Committee also had directed its attention to the 

development of an approval process for unit‐based campaign plans and projects.  It 

was noted that individual units’ strategic plans and campaigns were in different stages 

of development.  

In response to a question, Secretary Clough said that the theme of the national 

campaign would likely be identified by April or May 2009.  Another question was 

raised with regard to areas of overlap between the strategic planning process and the 

development of the national campaign, as each could inform the development of the 

other.  Strategic Planning and Programs Committee Chair Doris Matsui responded, 

stating that the three phases of the strategic planning process will be integrally tied to 

the national campaign.  She added that fund raising will be critical to the successful 

implementation of a strategic plan and that the identification of an overall theme will 

unite and inform both initiatives.   
13 

Another Regent voiced concern about the timing of a campaign launch when the 

national economic mood remains bleak.  Mr. Spoon assured the Board that plans for 

the campaign acknowledge the impact of a recession on the campaign’s launch and 

length, and that both would be adjusted to current economic realities.  Ms. Clark 

emphasized that the needs and direction of the Smithsonian will not change, even if 

the scale and speed of fund‐raising initiatives may change, including determining 

where such funds will be directed.  She also noted that, when the campaign’s blueprint 

is articulated, the proposed timing of the campaign will be a critical issue brought to 

the Regents for their consideration and approval. 

Secretary Clough added that the planning phase of the campaign will help identify key 

questions and requests likely to be posed by potential donors, and the appropriate 

responses that the Smithsonian must be prepared to provide, especially during the 

“soft” stage of the campaign. 

Another comment was made with respect to the economy’s anticipated impact on the 

campaign and the possible need to revise the campaign’s tactics.  As an example, Mr. 

McCarter suggested that the Smithsonian consider placing added emphasis on 

planned giving versus outright gifts.   

Web­Use Policy

With Regard to

Donor Support

Mr. Spoon concluded his presentation by commenting on the Smithsonian’s policies 

with regard to donor‐related logos and links on Smithsonian Web pages.  He reported 

that a survey had been conducted to analyze the Smithsonian’s policies against those 

of comparable non‐profit organizations.  He said that the survey made clear that the 

Smithsonian’s practices are well within those practiced by similar organizations and 

that its policies and practices are responsible, thoughtful, and comprehensive, and also 

are under ongoing review. 

Revision of

Compensation

Decision­Making

Responsibilities

REPORT OF THE COMPENSATION AND HUMAN RESOURCES 

COMMITTEE

Compensation and Human Resources Committee Chair Patty Stonesifer presented an 

overview of the Committee’s proposed restructuring of compensation decision‐

making responsibilities with regard to senior management.  The intention of the 

proposal was to differentiate between compensation decisions made by the full Board 

versus those made by the Committee, and followed the Committee’s prior decision to 

delegate the majority of senior management compensation decisions to the Secretary. 

Ms. Stonesifer explained under that the new system the Secretary would have 

responsibility for the initial compensation review of 225 senior management 

positions, and that the Secretary would make the final compensation determinations 

for 189 of those positions.  The Secretary would in turn offer recommendations 

regarding the remaining 36 positions to the Committee. 

Of the 36 compensation decisions referred to the Committee, 21 would receive final 

review and decision by that group.  The remaining 15 would be reviewed and referred 
14 

with recommendations to the full Board of Regents.  Ms. Stonesifer noted that all 225 

positions had previously been referred to the full Board for decision in the past. 

Ms. Stonesifer said that the Committee solicited input from both external and internal 

counsel, as well as outside compensation consultants, in its consideration of the 

compensation decision‐making process.  In addition, the proposal, which was 

proposed by the Smithsonian’s Office of Human Resources, was carefully vetted by 

that office with regard to best practices. 

Dr. Jackson asked about the delegation of compensation decisions with regard to 

certain high‐impact positions that report directly to the Board.  Ms. Stonesifer agreed 

to strengthen and make consistent the internal language regarding compensation 

determinations for chief gatekeeper positions.  The motion was approved. 

See attached Resolution 2008.11.08 (Minutes of the Board of Regents, Appendix A).

REPORT OF THE STRATEGIC PLANNING AND PROGRAMS COMMITTEE

Strategic Plan

Overview

Committee Chair Doris Matsui presented the Report of the Strategic Planning and 

Programs Committee.  Ms. Matsui reminded the Regents that the Smithsonian’s 

Strategic Plan will be a dynamic construct that will look into the future and include an 

ongoing process of review and renewal that adapts to changing conditions.  She noted 

that the plan will inform the forthcoming national campaign, as well as help determine 

the Smithsonian’s priorities as it defines its role in the 21st century.   

The Strategic

Planning Process   Ms. Matsui said that the strategic planning process will entail three discrete phases 

and will employ the consulting services of Booz Allen Hamilton and subcontractor 

Global Business Network.  Phase One, stakeholder outreach, was launched with the 

dissemination of a short, structured questionnaire designed to generate meaningful 

responses to inform the process and will conclude on January 30, 2009.  Ms. Matsui 

said that $400,000 had been raised to fund the $492,554 in estimated costs for Phase 

One. 

Phase Two will include scenario planning efforts and will be conducted from February 

through May 2009.  Using data gathered during Phase One, small groups will explore 

the ways the Smithsonian’s future might develop under alternative futures or 

scenarios.  The estimated cost for this phase is $448,888. 

Phase Three will address the crafting of the Strategic Plan, which will be written using 

information gathered during the first two stages of the process.  Scheduled for May 

through September 2009, this phase is estimated to cost $349,862.  Ms. Matsui said 

that the completed Strategic Plan will inform the internal implementation of the 

Strategic Plan and help identify funding priorities for the forthcoming national 

campaign. 

Strategic Plan

Steering Committee

Ms. Matsui then updated the Regents on the Secretary’s formation of a 22‐member 

Steering Committee to help guide and facilitate the planning process, ensure that the 
15 

process is inclusive and represents a diversity of viewpoints, and validate the 

process’s overall results.  Appointed by the Secretary and co‐chaired by National 

Museum of the American Indian Director Kevin Gover and National Museum of 

Natural History Senior Research Scientist Vicki Funk, the members of the Committee 

are primarily staff and represent the breadth of the Smithsonian’s academic 

disciplines and functional areas.  The Committee also includes one volunteer, one 

Smithsonian National Board member, two outside experts who have been involved in 

past Smithsonian planning efforts, and Chief of Staff to the Regents John Lapiana, an ex 

officio member who will provide a direct link between the Steering Committee and the 

Regents.  Ms. Matsui noted that Mr. Gover and Ms. Funk had been asked to provide an 

update on their efforts to the Regents’ Strategic Planning and Programs Committee at 

its December 8, 2008, meeting. 

Strategic Planning

Exercise

Ms. Matsui said that consultants from Booz Allen Hamilton and Global Business 

Networks led a strategic planning exercise with the Smithsonian National Board (SNB) 

at its meeting in October 2008 and asked SNB Chair Hacker Caldwell to elaborate 

upon the experience.  Mr. Caldwell said that the exercise had been very successful, the 

assignment and process had been clear, and the scenario planning discussions had 

been particularly engaging.  He noted that the members were pleased to be involved in 

both the exercise as well as the overall strategic planning process.   

Secretary Clough elaborated further upon Mr. Caldwell’s comments, stating that the 

experience with SNB provided an excellent launch for the strategic planning process, 

as well as an opportunity to “test drive” its implementation.  He said that the external 

consultants had worked well with the internal team from the Office of Policy and 

Analysis and that the documentation of the experience provided an excellent summary 

of the range and depth of the participants’ responses.  The Secretary said that the 

questionnaire used for the SNB planning process would soon be provided to 

Smithsonian staff but that, to prevent undue influence, the results of the SNB exercise 

would not be disseminated to staff prior to their own participation in the process.  He 

also noted that the Smithsonian anticipated that a significant amount of useful 

information would be received as a result of these engagements.   

Mr. Sant noted that Phase Two of the strategic planning process would begin only 

after the Smithsonian is satisfied that Phase One had been successfully completed.  Ms. 

Matsui added that the Committee would remain open and available to further 

questions and comments about the strategic planning process. 

Deaccession

of B­17G   Ms. Matsui next presented the proposed deaccession and transfer of a B‐17 aircraft 

from the National Air and Space Museum collection to the Mighty Eighth Air Force 

Museum in Savannah, Georgia.  She first noted that the review process for the 

proposal had been expedited directly to the Board, bypassing the Committee’s 

consideration, in response to grave concerns about the rapidly declining health of the 

Mighty Eighth Museum’s director, who had long advocated for this transfer. 

Ms. Matsui made clear that the proposed deaccession was routine in nature, of mutual 

benefit to both institutions, and of no cost to the Smithsonian.  She noted that it had 

received her careful review and subsequent support, as well as that of Secretary 
16 

Clough and Mr. Sant.  Ms. Matsui also said that, absent special circumstances, future 

proposed deaccessions will be reviewed by the Committee prior to their consideration 

by the Board.  The proposed motion was approved. 

See attached Resolution 2008.11.09 (Minutes of the Board of Regents, Appendix A).

Concluding Remarks Secretary Clough also updated the Board on activities related to the future of the Arts 

and Industries Building.  He said that an internal “possibilities group” had been 

formed under the direction of Acting Under Secretary for Finance and Administration 

Alison McNally and that the group had been exploring options for the building’s use.  

The Secretary said that an update would be provided to the Board at its January 26, 

2009, meeting. 

REPORT OF THE INVESTMENT COMMITTEE

Prior to introducing Investment Committee Chair David Silfen, Mr. Sant noted that 

current economic conditions demanded the dedication of extra time for the Board’s 

consideration of the Committee’s report.  He also commended the efforts of Mr. Silfen to 

guide the Committee and the management of the Smithsonian’s Endowment during a 

time of enormous market upheaval.  Mr. Silfen in turn recognized Chief Investment 

Officer Amy Chen. 

Mr. Silfen reported that the Committee had recently increased the number of its meetings 

in response to the market downturn and the recent presidential election.  He said that 

during its last meeting the Committee had discussed changing asset allocations, end‐of‐

year analyses of managers with regard to upgrades, the proposed Committee Charter, 

and recent news about peer endowments and cash liquidity issues. 

Fiscal Years 2007–

2008 Review and

Goals for 2009

An overview of the changes to the Smithsonian Endowment was provided to the Board.  

From fiscal years 2007 to 2008 the Smithsonian reduced the Endowment’s outright 

exposure to global equities (52.7% to 36.5%), increased its exposure to absolute and 

alternative assets, and markedly increased the Institution’s fixed income in cash to 

slightly above its policy target.  With regard to first quarter 2009 goals and in light of the 

Endowment being in capital preservation mode, Mr. Silfen said that outright exposure to 

global equities will continue to be reduced and incremental investments in convertible 

bonds and senior bank loans may be made.  Reflecting the volatile market, cash and fixed 

income totals will be raised to about 21%.  Additionally, the Endowment’s liquidity will 

continue to be reviewed to ensure that all capital requirements and commitments are 

met. 

Mr. Silfen reviewed the Committee’s investment strategy, performance, and objectives.  

He noted that proactive efforts had helped mitigate, but by no means eliminate, the 

effects of recent market upheavals on the Endowment’s performance.  The Board 

discussed whether or not the Endowment’s return goals and payout were realistic in 

light of the new economic conditions.  Dr. Jackson noted that many university boards  
17 

were reconsidering the formulas previously used to determine their payout returns.  The 

Board agreed that a review of the Smithsonian’s payout policy and the consideration of 

more caution projections were important.  

Next Steps Before outlining the next steps proposed by the Committee, Mr. Silfen commented on the 

contributions of the members of the Committee members, as well as Chief Investment 

Officer Amy Chen and her staff.  He noted that the Committee’s excellent mix of talent, 

chemistry, and dedication had been extremely important during such difficult economic 

times.   

Mr. Silfen said that necessary year‐end actions, such as strategic policy decisions and 

manager replacements, would be undertaken next.  Endowment strategies will continue 

to be diversified and private equity and real estate programs will be developed, although 

probably at a slower pace.  Mr. Silfen noted that the Office of Investments is severely 

understaffed, particularly with regard to the number of investment managers overseen 

by staff.   

The Board was reminded that majority (62%) of the Endowment is comprised of 

restricted funds.  The remainder is unrestricted.  The unrestricted payout in fiscal year 

2008 ($17 million) was used to fund ongoing programs. 

Committee Charter The Investment Committee report concluded with a motion to approve the proposed 

Investment Committee Charter.  The motion was seconded and approved. 

See attached Resolution 2008.11.10 (Minutes of the Board of Regents, Appendix A).

Closing Remarks The Board concluded its morning session with a discussion of the goals and format for 

the afternoon public meeting.  The meeting adjourned at 11:42 a.m., after which the 

Regents met in executive session until approximately 12:25 p.m.

ANNUAL PUBLIC MEETING

The first annual public meeting of the Smithsonian Board of Regents convened at 1:30 

p.m. in the Baird Auditorium of the National Museum of Natural History.  The meeting 

was made available to the public via a simultaneous Webcast of the proceedings, as 

well as a broadcast by C‐SPAN.  Because of the unanticipated absence of the 

Chancellor, Board Chair Roger Sant called the meeting to order at 1:30 p.m.  Mr. Sant 

welcomed the audience and introduced the members of the Board of Regents; he also 

expressed the Chancellor’s deep regret that he was unable to participate in the 

meeting.   

Mr. Sant then provided a brief overview of the anticipated purpose and structure of 

the meeting, as well as the events that led to its creation.  He spoke of the numerous 

governance reforms that had been enacted by the Smithsonian and the Board of  
18 

Regents over the prior 18 months and noted the creation of two new Board positions, 

the Chair and the Vice Chair, as well as the addition of four new standing Regents’ 

committees.  Mr. Sant emphasized that the Board’s decision to conduct an annual 

public meeting reflected its commitment to transparent governance and strengthening 

the engagement of its stakeholders. 

Although the meeting was initially designed to focus on the forthcoming strategic 

planning initiative, Mr. Sant said that the Board instead agreed to host a meeting 

wherein stakeholders could discuss a broader range of Smithsonian‐related questions 

and concerns.  He said that the comments and questions were being directed to the 

Board via three formats: e‐mail, handwritten notes, and spoken comments using 

microphones in the auditorium.  As an e‐mail address had been posted previously for 

this purpose, some comments had been collected in advance of the meeting.  None, 

however, had been shared with the Regents prior to the meeting.

Secretary Clough also welcomed the public to the meeting.  He reported on the current 

state of the Smithsonian, including its remarkable assets and the challenges it faces.  

He provided an overview of the strategic planning process and noted the important 

role of stakeholders’ participation in a bottom‐up process designed determine the 

future of the Smithsonian.  The Secretary then posed several questions to the 

audience, stating that stakeholders’ input on these topics was of special interest to 

Smithsonian management.  He also emphasized that the questions were not intended 

to limit the scope of the discussions. 

The Secretary first noted that the Smithsonian encompasses science, art, history, 

culture, and education and asked participants to consider which national and global 

challenges should the Smithsonian focus on for the future.  He then asked how the 

Smithsonian could improve its revenues and position in light of the fact that its 

financial resources are not increasing, its workforce is declining, and a Federal bailout 

is unlikely.  Secretary Clough’s third question considered what the Smithsonian should 

do to remain relevant in light of the dramatic changes in the ways people 

communicate, learn, and gather information.  He also asked how the Smithsonian can 

attract a young and diverse audience. 

The Board then engaged in a public discussion of comments and questions offered by 

Smithsonian stakeholders.  Questions and concerns were directly voiced by members 

of the audience and Chief of Staff to the Regents John Lapiana presented written and e‐

mail comments.  A wide range of topics were considered, such as the future of the Arts 

and Industries Building; the effectiveness of the Smithsonian’s governance reform 

initiatives; diversity among Smithsonian staff and advisory boards, as well as in the 

content of Smithsonian programs and exhibitions; the status of the Endowment; and 

the terms of donor gift agreements.   

The discussions were substantive and energetic.  At the conclusion of the meeting, Mr. 

Sant thanked the audience, the Board, and the Secretary for their participation in this 

important meeting.  He reminded participants that this meeting was the first of many 

future opportunities for Smithsonian stakeholders to directly engage with the Board  

MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF REGENTS

November 17, 2008

APPENDIX A 

APPROVED RESOLUTIONS

VOTED that the Board of Regents approves the November 10, 2008, final draft of the Minutes 

of the September 22, 2008, Meeting of the Board of Regents.  [2008.11.01]

VOTED that the Board of Regents nominates David M. Rubenstein of Bethesda, Maryland, for a 

statutory term of six years, succeeding Anne d’Harnoncourt, effective immediately.  

Furthermore, the Board asks its Congressional members to introduce and support legislation 

to this effect as soon as possible.  [2008.11.02]

VOTED that the Board of Regents names the IMAX theater at the National Air and Space 

Museum’s Steven F. Udvar‐Hazy Center the Airbus IMAX Theater for 10 years.  [2008.11.03]

VOTED that the Board of Regents names The David M. Rubenstein EOL Fellows Program at the 

National Museum of Natural History, a fellows program intended to advance the Encyclopedia 

of Life (EOL) initiative by devising a model and process for scientists to compile and upload 

knowledge, images, data, and other information into EOL species pages.  The fellows program 

will support post‐doctoral students, graduate students, and others who will work under the 

supervision of scientists at the Museum and other institutions working with the EOL initiative.  

[2008.11.04]

VOTED that the Board of Regents names the Clarice Smith American Art Education Initiative, a 

national education initiative at the Smithsonian American Art Museum supported by this gift.  

[2008.11.05]

VOTED that the Board of Regents creates and names the John A. Burnham Jr. and Helen L. 

Burnham Endowment for Galapagos Research, a quasi‐endowment for the National Museum of 

Natural History’s Galapagos research, and authorizes the transfer of funds identified for this 

purpose.  [2008.11.06]

VOTED that the Board of Regents creates and names the Marcella Brenner Fund, a quasi‐

endowment to support the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden’s exhibition of, and 

creation of educational material about, works of art by Morris Louis, and to conserve works by 

the artist.  [2008.11.07]

VOTED that the Board of Regents approves the revised compensation decision levels for the 

2009 Senior Executive Compensation Decision Cycle.  [2008.11.08]

VOTED that the Board of Regents approves the deaccession of the National Air and Space 

Museum’s B‐17G and the aircraft’s transfer to the Mighty Eighth Air Force Museum in Savannah, 

Georgia.  [2008.11.09] 

VOTED that the Board of Regents approves the Charter of the Investment Committee.  

[2008.11.10]