Donna Hayashi Smith has been appointed as the new curator of the White House, making her the first Asian American to hold this prestigious position. The announcement was made at the start of Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Originally from Wahiawa, Hawaii, Hayashi Smith has been part of the White House curator’s office since 1995 and has served under five presidents. She had been serving in an acting capacity since the retirement of her predecessor, Lydia Tederick. In her new role, Hayashi Smith will oversee the care of thousands of artifacts in the White House collection, from presidential portraits to furniture.
During her time in the curator’s office, Hayashi Smith led a process in 2022 to ensure that the White House maintains its accreditation as a national museum. This accreditation is important for recognizing the historical significance of the White House and ensuring the preservation of its valuable artifacts. First lady Jill Biden praised Hayashi Smith’s service under multiple presidential administrations and expressed her excitement about working with her to preserve the White House’s “living history.” The role of the White House curator is crucial in preserving and cataloguing important artifacts that reflect the history and legacy of the presidency.
Hayashi Smith’s appointment comes as the White House faced controversies, including a denied accusation of a secret plot to oust Karine Jean-Pierre. Despite these challenges, the appointment of Hayashi Smith represents a significant milestone in Asian American representation in the White House. As a woman of Asian descent, Hayashi Smith brings a unique perspective and background to her role as curator, which can contribute to a more diverse and inclusive representation at the highest levels of government. Her appointment highlights the importance of diverse representation in leadership positions to reflect the diversity of the American population.
The White House curator plays a vital role in preserving and maintaining the historical artifacts and collections housed within the White House. With her experience and tenure in the curator’s office, Hayashi Smith is well-equipped to handle the responsibilities of overseeing the care of thousands of artifacts. These artifacts range from presidential portraits to furniture and other important memorabilia that reflect the history of the presidency and the United States. Hayashi Smith’s appointment ensures continuity in the preservation of the White House’s collection for generations to come.
The appointment of Donna Hayashi Smith as the new White House curator signifies a commitment to diversity and inclusivity in the Biden administration. As the first Asian American to hold this position, Hayashi Smith brings a fresh perspective and background to the role, enriching the diversity of voices and experiences within the White House. Her appointment also highlights the contributions of Asian Americans to the cultural and historical landscape of the United States, showcasing the importance of representation in leadership roles. By appointing Hayashi Smith, the White House is taking a step towards creating a more inclusive and diverse environment in the nation’s capital.
Overall, Donna Hayashi Smith’s appointment as the new White House curator marks a significant moment in the history of the White House and the Biden administration. Her extensive experience, dedication, and commitment to preserving the White House’s historical artifacts make her a fitting choice for this important position. As the first Asian American to hold this role, Hayashi Smith’s appointment is a milestone for Asian American representation in leadership positions. Her work will ensure the continued preservation and curation of the White House’s collection for future generations to appreciate and learn from.
