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SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION   1594

be a man of scientific distinction with a background and interest in the natural sciences, of the general calibre who either presently was, or at a later point in his career might likely become, a member of the National Academy of Sciences and the American Philosophical Society. The Committee also felt that the nature of the task made it equally important that such a man should have talent in administration and should be intellectually and temperamentally equipped to carry well the intricate Washington duties that are so important a part of the responsibility of the Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution.

Dr. Haskins then pointed out that the question of emolument was an important one, and outline the importance of various special perquisites, such as a car, suitable housing, and special arrangements in connection with retirement benefits, resulting from the fact that for any individual coming at so relatively advanced an age as was inevitable in a post so distinguished as this, and consequently remaining in it for a relatively short time, supplement of normal retirement benefits was a practical necessity.

Dr. Haskins then turned to the matter of the salary for a new Secretary. He stressed that, due to the profound changes which have occurred in the whole American salary structure since the coming of the present Secretary, a salary which at that time seemed quite adequate could no longer be so regarded today. A substantial increase of salary for a new Secretary was essential.

The report was discussed by the Board, and a further item was considered at some length. This was the great desirability that there be some period of overlap in office between the present Secretary and his successor. There was also discussion of the cardinal importance of having the current Secretary preside at the opening of the new Museum of History and Technology. For these reasons, it was felt by the Board of Regents that it would be very desirable that the present Secretary, if he were willing, retain his office somewhat beyond his formal date of retirement.

The following resolution was then offered by Senator Saltonstall and passed by the Board of Regents:

That Messrs. Fleming and Haskins be authorized to discuss with Dr. Carmichael the possibilities of his continuing for a period beyond the retirement date he suggests at an increased salary in the area it is expected to pay his successor -- said salary to be dated from January 1, 1963. They shall report to the meeting of the Regents in May, 1963.

The Secretary, the Assistant Secretaries and the two secretaries taking the minutes then returned to the room.

REPORT ON POSSIBLE LEGISLATION AFFECTING THE SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION

The Secretary stated that working papers concerning this proposed legislation had been sent to the members of the Board for their consideration prior to the meeting. These