The Smithsonian Institution seems to have created its first position devoted to relations with Congress in 1973, a Special Assistant to the Secretary for Congressional Relations. In 1977 the function was attached to the Office of the Coordinator of Public Information. The Office of Government Relations was created in 1985. The incumbent is responsible for overseeing and developing the Smithsonian's relationships with Congress, the White House, the Office of Management and Budget, and with government officials at the state and local level.
Margaret C. Gaynor served as Special Assistant and Director of Government Relations, 1973-1992. She was succeeded by Mark W. Rodgers, 1992-1994; M. John Berry, 1995-1997; Donald R. Hardy, 1997-1999; and Nell Payne, 2000- .
Smithsonian Institution Archives, Agency History. Record 227066
