The light at the end of the tunnel

By Michael Johnson

It has certainly been exciting around the Museum lately.  As a member of the External Affairs team, I often provide tours of the construction zone to friends of the Museum, visitors, and staff.  In this role, I am fortunate to have a first-hand perspective on the progress being made toward the Museum's transformation.

The Skylight As I walked through the zone in preparation for a tour recently, I saw for the first time the skylight, no longer hidden by layers of scaffolding.  Sunlight poured through the glass opening four stories above me as I stood in front of the new Star-Spangled Banner gallery.  This feature alone has completely and dramatically changed the feeling of the central atrium.  Although still a construction zone, the Museum has never seemed so bright and welcoming!

It is a moment like this that makes all of our work over the past two years seem so worthwhile.  We really can see the light!

Mike Johnson is the Development Associate in the Museum's Office of External Affairs.  Mike is the resident "history buff" on the team charged with raising funds through the generosity of private individuals and organizations in support of the renovation, new exhibitions, and programs.