The 2025 Smithsonian Education Awards ceremony, held on March 27 at the Oprah Winfrey Theater in the National Museum of African American History and Culture, recognized outstanding achievements in educational programming across the Smithsonian Institution. Among the honorees were several alumni from GW's Museum Education Program (MEP), whose innovative contributions have significantly enhanced learning experiences for diverse audiences. The GW alumni honorees included Ann Casper, Katie Derloshon, Tiffany McGettigan, Silvana Oderisi, Emily Porter, Nicole Webster, and Bethany Wells.
The Smithsonian Education Awards celebrate staff and team accomplishments that demonstrate creativity, excellence, and a strong commitment to making educational resources widely accessible and relevant. This year’s ceremony highlighted the transformative impact of collaborative and innovative programs that open doors to lifelong learning for students, families, communities, and educators nationwide.
Notably, the prestigious Education Achievement Award—which honors individuals for outstanding performance and dedication to museum education—was presented to Tiffany McGettigan, Head of Education at the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden. Over the past nine years, McGettigan has transformed the museum’s education programming by using contemporary art as a tool for engagement with young audiences and their families. Her work makes contemporary art more approachable and enjoyable, exemplifying the Smithsonian’s mission to enhance learning through innovation and collaboration.
Lotte Lent, Acting Director of GSEHD's Museum Education Program, praised McGettigan's ongoing contributions: "Tiffany has been a stellar alum—serving as a mentor, guest speaker, field placement site supervisor, and adjunct faculty with the MEP since graduation. We are deeply proud of her accomplishments and her savvy and ethical leadership in the museum education field."
Also of note, the newly established Smithsonian Education Impact Award, which recognizes exceptional team efforts that improve outcomes for Pre-K–12 learners, educators, and families, was awarded to the National Museum of Natural History. Nicole Webster, Manager of School and Youth Programs, accepted the award on behalf of her team. Their project revamped the museum’s school programs to align with the Next Generation Science Standards for grades K–12, offering live, educator-led sessions both on-site and virtually, along with self-guided materials. This redesign broadened access and engagement, offering free programs on a wide range of scientific topics. Since its launch during the 2022–23 school year, the program has reached 40,000 students across 48 U.S. states and territories and six countries through 1,487 offerings.
The accomplishments of these MEP alumni reflect the program’s strong commitment to preparing leaders who champion innovation, equity, and access in museum education. Their collective work has advanced educational programming, distance learning, digital media, publications, and exhibitions throughout the Smithsonian.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the honorees for their exemplary work in enriching educational experiences and inspiring lifelong learning.