I. Michael Heyman, Tenth Secretary of the Smithsonian

Summary

• Article on Ira Michael Heyman, who became the tenth Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution in September 1994. The author interviewed Heyman for the article and writes that Heyman has three main projects in mind to handle during his tenure as Secretary: to provide electronic access to exhibits and shows, to establish an enduring structure for fund raising, and to have an effect on the overall governance of the Institution, especially in regard to research activities. According to the author and others interviewed for the article, Heyman will work to carry out his plans by using his proven talent for being able to see "the big picture," which was particularly useful in the U. S. Department of Interior position held just prior to his appointment as Smithsonian Secretary.
• The author comments on Heyman's accomplishments as Chancellor of the University of California at Berkeley from 1980 to 1990 in the areas of fund raising, departmental reorganization, and student and faculty integration, the last of which Heyman considers to be his proudest achievement. The author notes that cultural diversity is an area in which Heyman's views are like those of his predecessor, Robert McCormick Adams, who retired on September 19, 1994, after 10 years as Smithsonian Secretary. The author also gives biographical information on Heyman with some details regarding his childhood, education, family, and career, and, using quotes from Heyman and others interviewed, shows him as an interesting and quite likeable individual.

Subject

• Heyman, Ira Michael 5/30/1930-11/19/2011
• Adams, Robert McCormick 1926-2018
• University of California (1868-1952)
• United States Dept. of the Interior

Category

Smithsonian Institution History Bibliography

Contained within

Smithsonian Vol. 25, No. 7 (Journal)

Contact information

Institutional History Division, Smithsonian Institution Archives, 600 Maryland Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20024-2520, SIHistory@si.edu

Date

October 1994

Topic

• Secretaries
• Biography

Physical description

pages 16-19

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