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May 12, 1977

Management Review of the Smithsonian Institution Outline of Study Topics

"...I enclose a copy of a letter I have received from the Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution pledging his cooperation in this effort and suggesting that the Board of Regents authorize an independent study of the Smithsonian's organization, management and procedures to assess the Institution's present accountability to the Congress and the effectiveness of its operations and management.  Such a study would also re-examine the Smithsonian's present statutory authorities and recommend whatever changes may be needed to bring them up to date and strengthen them....The proposed study should clearly define the Smithsonian's charter and determine whatever new legislation may be desirable to assure its responsiveness as a Federal instrumentality.  As Secretary Ripley points out, the objective should be to identify opportunities for improvement while, at the same time, preserving the unique qualities that have made the Smithsonian such a source of natural pride and achievement." - extract from Senator Henry M. Jackson's letter of April 26, 1977 to the Chairmen and Ranking Minority Members of the House and Senate Subcommittees on Interior and Related Agencies, Committees on Appropriations.

From this statement of intentions, it may be determined that the proposed study should be relatively broad rather than narrow in scope. Furthermore, it should concentrate on questions and issues at the Institutional level rather than policies or procedures internal to the operations of individual bureaus or offices.  An exception to this understanding is the requirement to review the adequacy of legislative authorities as they pertain to separate organization units or programs.  On this basis, the following study outline is suggested.

Organization of the Smithsonian Institution

- Review of its origin and development (Mr. Powers' essay with study group comment as necessary)

- Present organization of the Institution (scope and diversity of activity)

- Effectiveness of oversight and direction of Smithsonian activities and policies by the Board of Regents; legal liabilities as trustees; relationship of the Congressional Regents to the Congress

- Role of the Smithsonian Secretary and the traditional nature of his responsibilities