In the early 1970's public affairs seem to have been handled as an element of the Office of Special Events and reported to the Director of the National Museum of History and Technology (NMHT). In 1978 Geraldine E. Sanderson, formerly the Special Events Officer, was appointed Public Information Officer. In 1980 Sanderson began reporting to the Director of the Office of Public and Academic Programs. When NMHT was renamed the National Museum of American History in 1980, the Office of Public Affairs again reported to the Director of the Museum. In 1982 Mary W. Dyer became Public Information Officer, serving until 1985. From 1984 to 1985 Public Affairs reported to the Department of Public Programs. In 1986 an Office of External Affairs, including public relations, was established under J. Renee Kortun. In 1987 Susan Foster became responsible for Public Affairs, serving until 1994. Tensia Alvirez served, 1995-1998, and was succeeded by Melinda Machado, 1998- .