Viewing page 13 of 124

This transcription has been completed. Contact us with corrections.

-xi-

to recognize significant accomplishments in order to publicize and further promote similar endeavors throughout the world. At present, recognition of achievements in aerospace is commercially oriented and does not reflect significant scholarly deliberation. It was proposed to rectify this oversight by the establishment of a National Air and Space Museum Trophy to be awarded annually. The Trophy would be for achievements in the following areas: the management of scientific or technological projects relating to air and space (support teams as well as managers will be considered); the execution of such projects by the team members and crew members involved; the attainment of distinction not only by a single extraordinary act but also by a career of service in the field of air and space technology, including management; and the history of air and space science and technology. Two trophies would be awarded at the same ceremony, one for current achievement and the other for past achievement which has not received proper recognition but has contributed significantly to advancing aerospace activities. Recipients of the National Air and Space Museum Trophy would be recommended by a special committee composed of eminent persons in the field and approved by the Secretary.

It was

VOTED that the Board of Regents establishes the National Zoological Park Medal for outstanding services to zoological science and conservation and the National Air and Space Museum Trophy for extraordinary service in air and space science and technology, anticipating that the Secretary will ensure their appropriate administration and presentation.

[[underlined]] Potential Donation for the National Museum of Natural History [[/underlined]]

Mr. Adams pointed out that the Gem Hall in the National Museum of Natural History is one of the most popular exhibits in the Museum, despite the fact that the hall is more than 27 years old and now badly outdated. It is sorely in need of a total renovation, and the level of funding required is not available from the Museum's budget.

The director and others in the Museum have been in communication with officials of the Zale Corporation, a Dallas-based manufacturer and retailer of jewelry, and their conversations have evolved to the point where Zale is considering a donation of $2.5 million to renovate the Gem Hall completely. This level of funding would permit the Museum's gem collection to be displayed in a setting in which considerations of design and security would be blended to produce a truly magnificent display. It is understood that the Zale Corporation would be interested in having an appropriate plaque mounted in the renovated hall in recognition of its support and in accordance with Smithsonian policy.

The following motion was approved: