Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution
Lonnie G. Bunch III is the 14th Secretary of the Smithsonian. He assumed his position June 16, 2019. As Secretary, he oversees 21 museums, 21 libraries, the National Zoo, numerous research centers, and several education units and centers. Two new museums—the National Museum of the American Latino and the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum—are in development. Bunch was the founding director of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture. Bunch chronicled the creation of the museum in his book, A Fool’s Errand: Building the National Museum of African American History and Culture in the Age of Bush, Obama and Trump, and is the first historian to be Secretary of the Institution. In 2021, he received France’s highest award, The Legion of Honor.
Annual Gala | May 2, 2023
With two ways to join — virtually or in-person — be a part of this year’s gala! Broadcast live from City Winery, hear from co-founder Anita Jacobson and Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, Lonnie G. Bunch III, during this special celebration marking our 35th anniversary and the re-opening of 97 Orchard Street.
