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SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION

SUMMARY PROCEEDINGS OF THE BOARD OF REGENTS

September 17, 1990


[[underlined]] REPORT OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE [[/underlined]]

The Executive Committee met on September 6.  After a detailed discussion of the implications of a potential Gramm-Rudman-Hollings sequester for Smithsonian operations, Federal and trust-funded alike, the Executive Committee expressed particular concern for the effects on employee morale and disruptions to the public.  The backdrop of the foregoing discussion notwithstanding, the Committee felt strongly that every effort should be made in the Congress to ensure the authorization of a Smithsonian Institution Senior Service; in the Committee's view, this is a long-term solution to a long-term problem and should not be driven by short-term considerations.

The Committee expressed its full support for the Secretary's redirection of development priorities in light of the changes in economic and financial conditions since the last meeting of the Board.  At the same time, the Committee was encouraged by the thoroughly professional preparation of the fund-raising plan for the National Museum of the American Indian and urges its implementation.  The Committee also endorsed the exploration of alternative funding sources at a time when prospects for immediate Federal support for the extension of the National Air and Space Museum are not especially promising.

[[underlined]] DESIGNATION OF JUDGE HIGGINBOTHAM AS A REGENT EMERITUS [[/underlined]]

A. Leon Higginbotham, Jr., has been a Regent since 1972; his current term will expire on October 18.  It was

VOTED that, in accordance with Section 2.08 of the Bylaws, the Board of Regents confers on the Honorable A. Leon Higginbotham the title of Regent Emeritus of the Smithsonian Institution, with all the rights and responsibilities thereof, effective October 18, 1990.

[[underlined]] REPORT OF THE AUDIT AND REVIEW COMMITTEE [[/underlined]]

Introducing the report (summarized below), Mr. Acheson indicated it was the Committee's view that work on the general ledger system has been progressing, but complexities have made progress slower and more difficult than desired.  He added that soon after the meeting of June 12, the Chairman met with the Inspector General and they agreed on changes in audit findings and follow-up that would give selective emphasis to the most significant issues.

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The Audit and Review Committee met on June 12, 1990.  Miss Leven and other staff discussed the development of the new automated general ledger