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Under pressure, Smithsonian head resigns

Lawrence M. Small, the banker who took over the Smithsonian Institution seven years ago, resigned under pressure, museum officials announced today.

Cristian Samper, a biologist who heads the National Museum of Natural History, was named acting secretary, according to an announcement by Roger Sant, head of the Smithsonian's executive committee.

Small's management of the Smithsonian has been sharply criticized by members of Congress, and his compensation and spending practices have been subjected to scrutiny by the Smithsonian's inspector general.

Related Links

  • Smithsonian announces Secretary’s resignation (press release)
  • Washington Post full coverage
  • Read entire article at Washington Post