Donna Hayashi Smith, the first Asian American to hold the position of White House curator, was recently appointed to the role. The announcement of her appointment was made at the start of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Originally from Wahiawa, Hawaii, Hayashi Smith has been with the White House curator’s office since 1995 and has served under five presidents. She had been serving in an acting capacity since last year following the retirement of her predecessor, Lydia Tederick. As curator, Hayashi Smith will be responsible for overseeing the care and preservation of thousands of artifacts in the White House collection, including presidential portraits, furniture, and more. She led the office through a process in 2022 to ensure that the White House maintains its accreditation as a national museum.
Hayashi Smith’s appointment was praised by First Lady Jill Biden, who highlighted her extensive experience serving under multiple presidential administrations. Biden expressed her anticipation of working with Hayashi Smith to preserve the White House’s “living history.” As curator, Hayashi Smith will play a key role in maintaining and cataloging the vast array of historical artifacts housed in the White House. Her leadership will ensure that these items are properly cared for and preserved for future generations to appreciate. The White House curator’s office is responsible for the upkeep of a wide range of items, from furniture and artwork to presidential gifts and memorabilia. Hayashi Smith’s appointment represents a significant milestone for Asian Americans in the field of museum curation and preservation.
In her new role as White House curator, Hayashi Smith will continue to uphold the highest standards of museum accreditation and preservation. She will work closely with other staff members to ensure that the White House remains a recognized national museum. Hayashi Smith’s extensive experience and expertise in the field of museum curation make her well-suited for the responsibilities of her new position. Her leadership will be crucial in preserving the rich history and cultural significance of the White House and its collection of historical artifacts. As the first Asian American to hold the role of White House curator, Hayashi Smith’s appointment is a historic moment and a testament to the diversity and inclusivity of the White House staff.
Hayashi Smith’s appointment comes at a time when there is increased recognition of the contributions of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders to American history and culture. As the country celebrates Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Hayashi Smith’s appointment highlights the importance of diversity and representation in leadership roles. Her appointment as White House curator serves as an inspiration to others in the Asian American community who aspire to leadership roles in the field of museum curation and preservation. Hayashi Smith’s accomplishment is a testament to her dedication and expertise in the field and serves as a milestone in the continued efforts towards diversity and inclusion at the highest levels of government.
Hayashi Smith’s leadership as White House curator will be instrumental in ensuring that the White House’s historical artifacts are preserved and maintained for future generations. Her commitment to upholding the highest standards of museum accreditation and her dedication to preserving the White House’s “living history” will be critical in maintaining the cultural significance of the White House collection. Hayashi Smith’s appointment represents a significant milestone for Asian Americans in the field of museum curation and serves as an inspiration to others in the community. As the first Asian American to hold the role of White House curator, Hayashi Smith’s appointment is a significant achievement and a testament to the diversity and talent within the White House staff. Her leadership will help to ensure that the White House remains a national museum of the highest caliber and continues to be a symbol of American history and culture.
