Top: Richard T. Olsen (Photo: Courtesy, Richard T. Olsen)
Bottom: Roberta Gasbarre (Photo: Amanda Corbett)
Registration Note: This members-only free program requires registration.
Discover Fridays at Noon
Mark Fridays at Noon on your calendar to savor the liveliest and most interesting conversation you’ll hear all week. Designed exclusively for Smithsonian Associates members, this monthly web podcast series invites you to go behind the scenes and into the working lives of some of the most intriguing people from all across the Smithsonian and Washington’s worlds of culture, science, and education.
This Month's Featured Guests
Get an inside look at the summer beauty—and science—at the National Arboretum, one of Washington’s hidden gems. Richard Olsen, the arboretum’s director, explores the scientific cultivation and preservation efforts at the core of this beloved 446-acre treasure. Craven Rand, director of the Friends of the National Arboretum, offers news about a more robust slate of programming after COVID and an exciting new strategic plan that includes a treetop canopy trail that promises a unique and breathtaking view of D.C.
Meet the Host
Led by Roberta Gasbarre, a multifaceted veteran arts educator and creator (and conversationalist extraordinaire), each informal 30-minute chat offers the perfect break to brighten your Friday and send you into the weekend with new insights from an array of engaging and thought-provoking guests.
“I love talking to people who are passionate about what they do, no matter the disciplines in which they work. It’s exciting for me to learn what makes them tick, where they find inspiration, and—especially now—how they remain innovative and imaginative when there’s a challenge to face. I always come away with something new and fascinating to spark my own thinking.” —Roberta Gasbarre
Upcoming Fridays at Noon Programs
Patron Information
- If you register multiple individuals, you will be asked to supply individual names and email addresses so they can receive a Zoom link email. Please note that if there is a change in program schedule or a cancellation, we will notify you via email, and it will be your responsibility to notify other registrants in your group.
- Unless otherwise noted, registration for streaming programs typically closes two hours prior to the start time on the date of the program.
- Once registered, patrons should receive an automatic email confirmation from CustomerService@SmithsonianAssociates.org.
- Separate Zoom link information will be emailed closer to the date of the program. If you do not receive your Zoom link information 24 hours prior to the start of the program, please email Customer Service for assistance.
- View Common FAQs about our Streaming Programs on Zoom.
