WASHINGTON — Lonnie G. Bunch III, secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, has announced that he will retire at the end of 2026, bringing nearly four decades of service to the nation’s largest museum and research organization to a close.
Bunch, who became Smithsonian secretary in 2019, made history as the institution’s first Black leader and first historian to hold the position. Before becoming secretary, he served as the founding director of the National Museum of African American History and Culture, helping guide the museum from its planning stages to its opening on the National Mall in 2016.
His retirement comes during an increasingly contentious period between the Smithsonian and the Trump administration.
The administration has criticized the institution’s presentation of American history and has pushed for changes to exhibitions and museum content, particularly material addressing slavery, race, immigration and other sensitive subjects.
Bunch has said the political pressure was not the reason for his retirement, explaining that he had been considering stepping down for about a year and wanted to spend more time with his family. At the same time, he has continued to defend the Smithsonian’s independence and its responsibility to present a comprehensive account of American history.
The Smithsonian Board of Regents will oversee the transition, appoint an acting secretary and begin a national search for Bunch’s permanent successor.
Bunch leaves behind a significant legacy that includes the growth of the Smithsonian’s museums, advancement of new institutions and a major fundraising campaign that has surpassed its $2.5 billion goal. His departure comes at a pivotal moment for the Smithsonian as it faces questions about its future direction and independence.
