National Museum of American Art. Office of Educational Programs Search this
Extent:
12.5 cu. ft. (12 record storage boxes) (1 document box)
Type:
Collection descriptions
Archival materials
Manuscripts
Scrapbooks
Black-and-white photographs
Date:
circa 1968-1991, with materials dating from 1920
Descriptive Entry:
These records consist of files concerning the administration of the office, including monthly calendars and scrapbooks of the docent program, information on exhibitions,
the records of the "National Survey of Accessibility in Museums in the United States," and a photograph album of artist Alma Thomas.
Historical Note:
The Office of Educational Programs had its origins in the Office of Museum Programs, established in 1968 to coordinate the activities of the Junior Museum, the docent
program, the publication of postcards, and other events to educate the public. Susan Sollins, who held the title of Visual Information Specialist, was placed in charge of
the Office and given the title of Chief in 1970. When she departed in 1970, her duties were transferred to the Department of Education, where Darrel Sewell was named Associate
Curator of Education in 1970. He served as Curator of Education, 1971-1972. His successor was Peter Bermingham, who held the title 1973-1978.
Bermingham was succeeded by Barbara Shissler (from 1980, Barbara Shissler Nosanow). She served as Curator of Education 1979-1982. From 1983 to 1984, Nosanow's title was
Assistant Director, Programs. In 1985 her title changed again to Assistant Director, Museum Programs. She remained in the office until her departure in 1988 when Judith O'Sullivan
was named Acting Assistant Director, Museum Programs. In 1989 James W. Volkert became Acting Assistant Director, Museum Programs. In 1990 the name of the Office was changed
to the Office of Educational Programs. Nora Panzer was appointed Acting Chief and held the position, 1990- .
