On November 28, 1989, President George Bush signed the NMAI Act into law. It created the museum’s two locations and a research center; it also set an important precedent for the Smithsonian and the nation. Continue reading Commemorating the Anniversary of the National Museum of the American Indian Act
After a trip to Amsterdam and discussions on a forthcoming National Slavery Museum in the Netherlands, I was struck by our universal and perpetually incomplete project of memorializing the past. Continue reading Reflections From a Dutch National Reckoning
I am awed at the breadth and depth of scientific research and discovery happening every day across the Smithsonian, but I am most struck by the warmth and brilliance of our staff. It is my sincere hope that “Eye on Science” will give all of you the opportunity to hear some of their stories. Continue reading A chance to learn more about the spectacular diversity of our work
Celebrate the return of the spirits with the Smithsonian’s Día de los Muertos events. Continue reading El Día de los Muertos at the Smithsonian
From the National Mall to rural schoolhouses, we’re bringing learning to students of all ages. Continue reading How the Smithsonian Is Educating the Next Generation
Secretary Bunch recaps some of the major topics discussed at last week’s All-Staff Town Hall meeting. Continue reading Highlights from the Secretary’s Sept. 20 Town Hall Meeting
Unit-specific results are now available. Continue reading Results of the 2023 Smithsonian Employee Perspective Survey
Similar to previous shutdowns, we expect to have enough carryover funding available to avoid a shutdown on October 1 if one were to occur, so we plan to proceed with business as usual at this time. Continue reading Contingency planning in the event of a federal shutdown
The Smithsonian’s 2023 Combined Federal Campaign has launched and will continue until January 15, 2024. Continue reading Give Happy: The 2023 Combined Federal Campaign
In historical sites across the country, there is a sense of the immediacy of history that can’t be found elsewhere. Continue reading The Archetypal American Road Trip and the Power of Memory
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
Salute your colleagues June 11, from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at the American History Museum's Warner Brothers Theater. Continue reading Introducing this year’s Unsung Heroes
Kara Blond brings 25 years of experience to her new role, including previous stints at the Smithsonian. Continue reading Director named for SITES | Affiliations
Relive the highlights from this year's Volunteer Appreciation Event--or experience the event for the first time through the miracle of video. Continue reading Highlights from the 2025 Volunteer Appreciation Event
