Madeleine “Maddie” Weyand-Geise recently joined OPA as the public affairs assistant, though she’s yet to step foot into the Castle as an employee. After starting work mid-pandemic, Maddie can’t wait for coworkers other than her aloe plant. Maddie comes to OPA with a background working in communications for local arts organizations and higher education. With degrees in art history and public relations, Maddie sees the Smithsonian as the perfect workplace to combine her passions for art, public access and education.
The President's budget for fiscal year 2026, released May 30, includes deep cuts to Smithsonian federal funding. Secretary Bunch explains the federal appropriations process and reminds us of the long road between initial requests and final budget. Continue reading FY 2026 Appropriations Process
A chance encounter and a new exhibition demonstrate the power of photography to “Secure the shadow, ere the substance fade.” Continue reading From Shadow to Substance
