In 2019, the Smithsonian faced the repercussions of the nation’s longest-ever government shutdown, but the institution is no stranger to the dreaded furlough.

Diving consultant Joseph Libbey, the first nationally certified instructor in the D.C. area, who taught and certified Smithsonian curators, technicians, and specialists as divers in connection to their work, as well as accompanied teams of scientists on a number of Smithsonian collecting expeditions to gather specimens and supervise other divers, August 30, 1979.

In 1974, women joined the Smithsonian security force and they have been rising through the ranks ever since.

Impacting the National Air and Space Museum with her caring attitude and dedication to her work in the Building Management Department, Annie Sullivan is an individual to be remembered.

Cordell Dickerson, photographer in the tintype studio in the Arts and Industries Building museum shop, poses with camera and top hat, February 1, 1980, by Richard Hofmeister.

Amina Dickerson, Director of Education at the National Museum of African Art, 1974 to 1982, established African Heritage Month at the Smithsonian and led work to make the museum educational programs more accessible. #Groundbreaker

See Here: a weekly photo feature showcasing images from the collections of the Smithsonian Institution Archives.

Biologist and primate keeper, Melanie R. Bond, was the first woman gorilla keeper at the National Zoo and co-authored the "Orangutan (Pongo) Care Manual" for the Association of Zoos & Aquariums. #Groundbreaker

See Here: a weekly photo feature showcasing images from the collections of the Smithsonian Institution Archives.

Curator Dr. Karen Milbourne, National Museum of African Art, studies the arts of western Zambia and contemporary African art. Her exhibition "Visionary: Viewpoints on Africa's Arts" won an AAMC Excellence in Exhibitions award. #Groundbreaker