The advisory board of the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History has counted since last February 24 with the presence of three experienced women who seek to strengthen the capacity of the museum to fulfill its mission of empowering people to create a more just and compassionate future.  

Anthea M. Hartig, the museum’s Elizabeth MacMillan Director, pointed out:

With the addition of Linda Alvarado, Julie Flynn and Teuila Hanson to our board, we are not only gaining invaluable expertise in the business and leadership fields, but we are also welcoming three inspiring role models to our team.

Among those chosen stands out Linda Alvarado, the first Hispanic owner of a Major League Baseball franchise, founder of Alvarado Construction and honorary dean of real estate and construction at the Daniels School of Business at the University of Denver.

Alvarado’s Career 

Originally from Albuquerque, New Mexico, Alvarado studied economics at Pomona College and received a Ph.D. in business leadership from Duquesne University.

With 35 years of experience in the construction industry, with a focus on large multi-million dollar commercial, government, and institutional contracts, Alvarado is also president of Palo Alto Inc. and Alvarado Restaurant Entities, and serves on the boards of directors of Limbach Holdings Inc. and the Latino Donor Collaborative.

From the Smithsonian is highlighted how Alvarado has received numerous awards and recognitions, including being named one of the ‘100 most influential Hispanics in the United States’ by Hispanic Business magazine.

"There Are Black People in the Future." - Alisha B. Wormsley

"Afrofuturism: A History of Black Futures" is open now. #NMAAHCFutures https://t.co/4gTdqGwQc1 pic.twitter.com/IyaCEqurKI

— Smithsonian NMAAHC (@NMAAHC) March 24, 2023

The board, led by Chairman Enrique Segura, Ph.D., and his vice chair, former U.S. Secretary of Commerce Barbara H. Franklin, was established in 1996 and includes historians, business leaders, members of Congress, and philanthropists, and has an active alumni representation.

Its members advise the director and her leadership team on programs, exhibits, facilities, development and finances.

“Their stories of perseverance and success, as well as their dedication to giving back, will be a source of motivation for all who visit our museum and engage with our work,” added Hartig.

Through unparalleled collections, rigorous research, and dynamic public outreach, the National Museum of American History seeks to empower people to create a more just and compassionate future by examining, preserving, and sharing the complexity of our past.

The museum, located on Constitution Avenue N.W. between 12th and 14th streets, is open every day except December 25, between 10 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.

Admission is free and the museum's doors are always open online, where the virtual museum continues to expand its offerings, including exhibits, materials, and PK-12 educational programs.