Pelosi Reappoints Matsui to Smithsonian Board of Regents

WASHINGTON — House Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Jan. 23 announced the appointment of Rep. Lucille Roybal-Allard of Los Angeles and the reappointment of Rep. Doris Matsui of Sacramento to serve on the governing Board of Regents of the Smithsonian Institution.

Rep. Doris Matsui, accompanied by her grandchildren Anna and Robby, is sworn in by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Jan. 3.

“Since 1846, the Smithsonian Institution has played a critical role in our nation’s social and cultural life, preserving our unique and beautiful history, and inspiring generations of Americans to understand and explore our heritage,” said Pelosi. “The Smithsonian Board of Regents is essential to guiding the future of this special institution and ensuring it remains a source of creativity, innovation and scientific discovery for Americans and visitors from around the world.

“As speaker of the House, it is an honor to appoint two outstanding champions to the Board of Regents: Congresswoman Doris Matsui and Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard.

“As a returning board member, Congresswoman Matsui’s proven leadership will be vital to the Smithsonian’s work to safeguard and share our national heritage with all. Congresswoman Roybal-Allard has been a tireless public servant and a passionate supporter of the Smithsonian’s mission, and her leadership will be a great asset in its work to advance ‘the increase and diffusion of knowledge.’

“The strong voices and diverse perspectives of these regents will be essential to ensure the Smithsonian and Congress can work together to preserve this national treasure and strengthen the relationship between this institution and the American people.”

Matsui, who has served in Congress since 2005, was first appointed to the Board of Regents in 2017.

The 17-member board, which meets four times a year, includes Chief Justice John Roberts and Vice President Mike Pence as ex officio members. Other board members are three members of the Senate; three members of the House of Representatives; and nine citizen members, nominated by the board and approved by the Congress in a joint resolution signed by the president. Regents who are senators and representatives serve for the durations of their elected terms. Citizen Regents may serve two six-year terms.