American Corner Yerevan

Virtual Journey to the Smithsonian Institution

1:00pm 23.01.2010

On January 23, 2010, the American Corner Yerevan organized a public lecture entitled "The Smithsonian Institution." Guest speaker U.S. Embassy General Services Officer Charles Clegg led the lecture and discussion.

Mr. Clegg presented the mission and history of the Smithsonian Institution, located in Washington, D.C. As stated by its founder British scientist James Smithson, it is an establishment for the increase and diffusion of knowledge. In the 160 years since its establishment, the Smithsonian has become the institutional memory of America’s cultural heritage.

Mr. Clegg mentioned that the Institution hosts many museums such as the National Museum of Natural History, the National Museum of American History, the National Air and Space Museum, as well as the National Zoological Park. The speaker also mentioned that admission to the museums and zoo is free, and also gave good advice about how best to enjoy a visit to the Institution.

About 30 participants from Yerevan State University attended the lecture, as well as professionals of different spheres and U.S. Government exchange program alumni, who asked many questions.

The Yerevan American Corner and the U.S. Embassy organized the lecture to inform participants about one of American’s greatest educational and cultural institutions. After the lecture, many participants joined Mr. Clegg in exploring more about the Smithsonian Institution by visiting their web site at: http://www.si.edu.