By 2022, the Smithsonian will build on its unique strengths to engage and to inspire more people, where they are, with greater impact, while catalyzing critical conversation on issues affecting our nation and the world (Smithsonian Annual Performance Plan, 2022, p. 2)
Museums are often thought of as storehouses of artifacts that document history. However, over the last decade there has been an evolution in the museum world, driven by the belief that the museum serves best when it offers dynamic and engaging exhibits and activities that can serve as catalysts for stimulating collaborative change in our increasingly complex world.
This evolution can be seen throughout the Smithsonian Institution’s 21 museums and the National Zoo, where the focus on developing accessible, inclusive exhibitions that challenge existing narratives, provoke our critical thinking and work to engage us in dialogue that will generate collaborative change to address the intricacies of the world in which we live is visible. Increasingly we see social, cultural and environmental issues being addressed throughout multiple museums and exhibits, with accompanying educational resources that help further and transform conversations. Stories that have been overlooked are being brought to life, as attention is being given to those whose voices have been missing.
This aligns with the mission of educators at Montgomery College, who work to encourage collaboration and critical thinking skills in their students. Our 2025 Smithsonian Faculty Fellowship theme, Museums as Catalysts for Collaborative Change in a Complex World is one that faculty from all disciplines can apply in their classrooms. Faculty can have students examine topics such as environmental sustainability, inclusion of marginalized voices, social justice, and impact of technology allowing students to imagine the diverse ways museums can engage with their communities and effect meaningful change. They can explore what it means to be a citizen scientist and serve as catalysts for change in their own communities.