Smithsonian Voices

From the Smithsonian Museums

Melanie A. Adams

Melanie A. Adams, PhD, currently serves as the Director of the Smithsonian Anacostia Community Museum.  Before joining the Smithsonian, Dr. Adams served as the Deputy Director for Learning Initiatives at the Minnesota Historical Society overseeing the state’s 26 historic sites.  Prior to Minnesota, she spent twelve years at the Missouri Historical Society as the Managing Director for Community Education and Events.  Dr. Adams is an active member of the museum community and served on the board of the American Association for State and Local History and is a former president of the Association of Midwest Museum.  

How Museums Can Be Spaces for Reflection and Connection (Even with Their Doors Closed)

The pandemic has shown that museums have an important role to play as integral members of their communities.