Former Secretary David J. Skorton

David SkortonDr. David J. Skorton was the 13th Secretary of the Smithsonian. He assumed his position July 1, 2015. Lonnie G. Bunch III is the 14th Secretary of the Smithsonian. He assumed his position June 16, 2019. 

Under Skorton’s leadership, a new strategic plan was developed with a focus on convening critical conversations about topics of vital public interest. An example of this was the first-of-its-kind Earth Optimism Summit on Earth Day weekend 2017, which brought together scientists, thought leaders, conservationists, and students to share conservation and sustainability solutions that have worked and can work on a larger scale. The strategic plan also calls for increased outreach and attention to the relevance and impact of the Smithsonian’s activities.

Full biography »