She’ll tell you when to run. Continue reading If you’re one of 800 million people who live near an active volcano, you should meet Kadie Bennis
From chariot horses and armed dolphins, to carrier pigeons and super-secret spy cats, as long as men have gone to war, they have taken animals with them. In this edition of Sidedoor we bring you the stories of dogs, cats and birds who have gone far beyond the call of duty. Continue reading Tails of Bravery (Pun very much intended)
There is a lot at stake as we head toward the presidential election. It’s important to be involved, but as a Smithsonian employee, you may be limited in the ways you contribute to the political discourse. Continue reading Left, right or somewhere in the middle
It starts with observation and inquiry. Briana Zavadil White explains how visual literacy can help hone skills in critical thinking, historical context and empathy. Continue reading How do you “read” a portrait?
The middle of January is a nice time to plan a trip to tropical Panama. Just ask Steven Paton, who has been monitoring weather patterns in Panama for more than three decades and manages weather data going back almost a century. Continue reading Eye on Science: Watching the weather in Panama
Over the course of a 50-year career, Pam Henson has helped change the way we tell the Smithsonian story. Her favorite things about the Institution reflect her passion for including everyone’s contributions in the history of a great Institution. Continue reading A few of my favorite things: Pam Henson
It is a truism that “in the midst of life, we are in death,” and the sad fact is that no matter how carefully husbanded, the animals in our care will inevitably pass away–ideally after long and healthy lives. When a death occurs unexpectedly, the Zoo’s animal pathologists step up to determine why and how. Continue reading By investigating death, the Zoo’s Kali Holder gathers lessons on life
A new agreement renews the working relationship between the two organizations and strengthens a framework for collaboration. Continue reading Smithsonian and the State Department team up for global impact
This year, National Museum of Natural History Director Kirk Johnson helped spearhead an effort to add up the collections of the world’s largest museums. Continue reading 1.1 Billion Objects and Counting: Inside the Effort to Tally Natural History Specimens Around the Globe
Eye on Science talks to anthropologist Briana Pobiner about human origins, cannibalism and being a champion for women in science. Continue reading Eye on Science: What did ancient humans eat and why does it matter today?
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
