Dr. David Skorton, 13th Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution / courtesy Cornell University Photography.

Dr. David Skorton, 13th Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution / courtesy Cornell University Photography.

The Smithsonian has selected an Ivy League cardiologist to become the institution’s next secretary.

Dr. David J. Skorton, president of Cornell University, was elected as the 13th Secretary of the Smithsonian and will take on the position in July 2015. According to the release, Skorton will be the first physician to lead the Smithsonian.

“Becoming a part of the Smithsonian is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to lead an institution that is at the heart of the country’s cultural, artistic, historical and scientific life,” Skorton said in a release. “I am honored by the Board of Regents’ decision. I look forward with great enthusiasm to partnering with the excellent staff and volunteers, and engaging with the Regents, Congress and the Smithsonian’s many friends, supporters and affiliates to further extend our reach. I am eager to work with the leaders of Washington’s art, science and cultural centers to emphasize the critical importance of these disciplines.”

Skorton will replace Wayne Clough, who will step down at the end of this year.

Here are some of the nice things said about Skorton in a release from the Smithsonian:

  • Chief Justice John Roberts: ““David Skorton has demonstrated keen vision and skilled leadership as the president of two great American universities.”
  • “An ardent and nationally recognized supporter of the arts and humanities, Skorton has called for a national dialogue to emphasize the importance of funding for these disciplines.”
  • “Skorton is a strong proponent of industry-university partnerships.”
  • “A highly effective fundraiser, Skorton led a team that raised more than $5 billion during his presidency at Cornell.”
  • “A pioneer in applying computer analysis and processing techniques to cardiac imaging, he has published two major texts and numerous articles, reviews and book chapters on cardiac imaging and image processing.”
  • “A jazz musician, Skorton plays the saxophone and flute.”
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