Meeting of the Board of Regents | June 2007

SUMMARY

Issue for Discussion

Collections research programs at the New York State Museum.

Reason(s) for Consideration

An understanding of the role of collections-based research will help the Regents advocate for the construction of the new collections stewardship facility and gallery renewal.

Proposed Handling

The Regents Cultural Education Trusteeship Committee will oversee the construction of the new collections research facility and gallery renewal, make recommendation to the Cultural Education Fund Board of Trustees and report periodically to the Full Board.

Procedural History

Reports on Museum collections research have been presented periodically to the Cultural Education Trusteeship Committee and to the full Board over the last decade.

Background Information

As required under Education Law §233, §235, and §235b, the New York State Museum carries out a program of scientific research in anthropology/archaeology, biology, and geology/paleontology. Under Arts and Cultural Affairs Law §57.03, the Museum carries out research programs in history. These collections-based research programs provide evidence that continually revise and redefine the nature of New York and its place in the world.

Recommendation

The Committee will endorse continued collections-based research.

Timetable for Implementation

Ongoing.