About the Author: David Skorton

David J. Skorton is the 13th Secretary of the Smithsonian. A board-certified cardiologist whose specialty is congenital heart disease and cardiac imaging, Skorton is also an avid jazz musician and a passionate supporter of the arts and humanities.

Jan

Cultural Heritage Preservation: Protecting the past from the present

The Smithsonian preserves things: from stories to species, from artifacts to artworks. Increasingly, the talents of our experts are being used to preserve the history and culture of people across the country and around the world threatened by disaster and destruction, whether natural or manmade. Secretary Skorton chats with our Cultural Heritage Preservation Officer Cori Wegener and Acting Provost/Under Secretary for Museums and Research Richard Kurin to learn more about our role. Continue reading Cultural Heritage Preservation: Protecting the past from the present

Nov

Happy Birthday to James Smithson, International Man of Mystery

James Smithson was an indefatigable scholar and scientist, world traveler, chronic gambler and possibly an international spy. But it was his “unshakeable optimism for modernity” that led him to wager his entire fortune on the founding of a great institution in the brand-new United States of America. Continue reading Happy Birthday to James Smithson, International Man of Mystery

Oct

Biodiversity genomics: Is Earth’s gene pool in danger of drying up?

As the “Age of Humans” progresses, we are facing critical environmental and climate challenges that threaten the biodiversity of life on our planet. Secretary Skorton talks with John Kress about how Smithsonian scientists are working to understand the building blocks of life itself in an effort to meet these challenges. Continue reading Biodiversity genomics: Is Earth’s gene pool in danger of drying up?

Oct

Magic

Remarks by Dr. David Skorton on the occasion of his installation as 13th Secretary of the Smithsonian, Oct. 19, 2015. Continue reading Magic

Sep

A Nation of Nations

The Latino experience in the United States is a tapestry woven from generations of diverse and colorful stories that speak of adversity and triumph. Secretary Skorton recognizes Hispanic Heritage Month by saluting those whose rich cultural contributions have helped make this nation what it is today. Continue reading A Nation of Nations

Aug

Why the arts matter: Our future may depend on our creativity

Dr. Skorton comes to the Smithsonian with a well earned reputation as an advocate for the arts. He sat down with the Torch to explain why the arts and humanities are such a vital part of the Smithsonian’s mission. Continue reading Why the arts matter: Our future may depend on our creativity

Jul