Ms. Marsha L. Semmel, Deputy Director for Museums and Director for Strategic Partnerships, Institute of Museum and Library Services, USA, will visit Korea from May 21 to May 26 by invitation of the Korea Foundation.
After commencing her museum career at the Taft Museum in Cincinnati, Ms. Semmel worked at the B’nai B’rith National Jewish Museum, Conner Prairie in Indianapolis, and the West Museum in Denver. She also worked at the National Endowment for the Humanities, serving as Assistant Director for Humanities Projects in Museums and Historical Organizations, and as Director of Public Programs. Currently, she manages to support all types of museums and maintain oversight of federal-state partnership activities. Accordingly, her visit is expected to help build networks and international exchange between specialists in the two countries.
During her stay, Ms. Semmel will deliver a presentation on “The Future of U.S. Museum Policies” at an international symposium commemorating the 100th anniversary of Korean museum, and at the National Folk Museum of Korea for those dealing with cultural policies. She will also visit the Cheonggyecheon Museum, Gyeongbokgung Palace and historical attractions in Gyeongju for a first-hand opportunity to appreciate Korea’s past and present.
Established by the Museum and Library Services Act of 1996, the Institute of Museum and Library Services is and independent agency of the U.S. federal government. It is the main source of federal support for libraries and museums within the United States and functions at the national level and in coordination with state and local organizations to sustain heritage, culture and knowledge.
