Donna Hayashi Smith, who has worked in the White House’s Office of the Curator for more than twenty years, has been named as the new curator.
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- The curator oversees the White HouseShe is in charge of the historic artifacts, artwork, and furniture at the White House.
- Following Lydia Tederick's retirement, Smith has become the first Asian American to hold this position.
- She became Smith was the acting chief curator since last June, taking over after Tederick’s retirement the previous year.
- Smith is well-regarded for her knowledge of the White House’s extensive collection of over 60,000 objects. authority Some information about Smith:
Originally from Wahiawa,
- Smith has degrees in art history (from the University of Hawaii at Manoa) and museum studies (from George Washington University). HawaiiShe started her career with fellowships at
- the Smithsonian Institution ‘s National Museums of American History and American Art.Additional details:
This week, the White House announced the appointment, coinciding with the start of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander
- Heritage Month Smith has been part of the Office of the Curator since 1995, serving under five presidential administrations..
- Her previous positions include administrative assistant, collections manager, associate curator, and registrar.
- She played a crucial role in maintaining the White House’s accredited museum status under the American Alliance of Museums.
- Smith played First Lady Jill Biden stated, “Donna Hayashi Smith brings years of experience. She understands the history and legacy of the White House.”
- Up next:
Smith's focus will be on preserving the White House’s collection, making it accessible to the public, and ensuring greater diversity in the displayed artifacts.
- Donna Hayashi Smith, a member of the White House’s Office of the Curator for over two decades, has been appointed as the new curator.
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