Lonnie Bunch

Bunch's career is marked by historic firsts and transformative leadership. He is the first African American and first historian to serve as Smithsonian secretary, overseeing the world's largest museum complex. As founding director of the National Museum of African American History and Culture, he built an institution that drew over 3 million visitors in its first year and became a cultural landmark. He has been recognized with France's Legion of Honor and the Dan David Prize, among other honors. His work has fundamentally changed how American history is presented and understood, giving voice to stories that were long overlooked.