According to Goethe, flowers are how Nature shows she loves us. Share the love and refresh your soul as Secretary Skorton takes a tour of the Smithsonian’s gardens. Continue reading Public gardens foster the public good
Smithsonian Secretary David Skorton explains why “Earth Optimism” is more than a slogan–it is a rallying cry for people of conscience. Continue reading The argument for environmental optimism
This month’s Earth Optimism Summit offers a new model for the Smithsonian to show leadership at the intersection of science, the arts and the humanities. Continue reading On the cutting edge
Humans are unique among species in that we are the agents of our own destruction. Can we also be our own and the earth’s salvation? This month, Dr Skorton examines the critical loss of biodiversity during the Age of Humans and the ways the Smithsonian is working to arrest that loss. Continue reading We cannot survive alone
With the proliferation of “alternative facts” and accusations of “fake news” formenting ever deeping distrust of traditional media and information sources, where do we turn for nonpartisan, unbiased and accurate information about the world around us and the events that affect us? Continue reading Trusted Sources: Why museums and libraries are more relevant than ever
In this month’s column, our resident cardiologist addresses a subject near and dear to his heart: preventing the number one cause of death in the United States. Continue reading Matters of the heart
When Donald J. Trump is inaugurated January 20, he will be the 35th president to hold office since the Smithsonian Institution was established in 1846. Continue reading Presentation, preservation and participation: Our role in the world’s greatest democracy
How do we define our shared humanity? What role can the Smithsonian play in the exchange of world-changing ideas? How do we incorporate the creative arts into our vision? These are just a few of the questions we are considering as the Smithsonian moves forward on a new plan to define our future. Continue reading The transformative power of art
Secretary Skorton reminds us that the exercise of democracy can help us be reassured and confident of the future. Continue reading An Exercise of Democracy
We are only beginning to understand the interwoven complexity of life on Earth. The unraveling of a single thread–the extinction of a species, the emergence of a pandemic–can have a devastating effect. Dr. Skorton spoke with Dr. Suzan Murray about the Smithsonian Global Health Program and its work to keep Earth’s rich tapestry intact. Continue reading A planet in peril
Celebrate the return of the Giant Pandas to the National Zoo with new gear, Orders close March 7. Continue reading Show your panda pride with new biking, running and athletic gear!
Change is inherently challenging; rapid change is even more difficult. Continue reading Thank you for your commitment
Because he finally could (without being run over) thanks to the pioneering work of the Zoo's Fernanda Abra. Continue reading Why did the monkey cross the road?
Brachman brings 20 years of experience on Capitol Hill and in the private sector to her new role. Continue reading Anne Brachman named new director of the Office of Government Relations
Calling all history lovers: we need your feedback! Will you take a few minutes to help the National Museum of American History provide better access to their collections? Continue reading American History Needs Your Feedback!
