Mastering the Room

Former Archivist of the United States Colleen Shogan Sets the Record Straight

Episode Summary

In this conversation, Dr. Colleen Shogan, the Archivist of the United States, discusses her role and responsibilities, the vast scope of the National Archives, and the processes involved in managing presidential records. She shares insights into her journey to becoming an archivist, including the nomination and confirmation processes and the political dynamics that influenced her appointment. In this conversation, Colleen Shogan shares her experiences as the Archivist of the United States, detailing the challenges of the nomination process, her day-to-day responsibilities, and the importance of preserving historical records. She reflects on her dismissal from the position and discusses the role of the archivist in the electoral process. Shogan emphasizes the significance of civics education and her commitment to promoting an understanding of government and history.

Episode Notes

Takeaways

• The National Archives has 43 facilities across the U.S.
• There are 13.5 billion records in the National Archives.
• Presidential records are considered permanent records.
• Over 90% of presidential records are electronic.
• Only 1-3% of federal agency records are preserved.
• Records training is mandatory for federal employees.
• Presidential records are transferred to the Archives after a term ends.
• The confirmation process can be influenced by political events.
• Colleen Shogan's background includes significant experience in public service.
• The nomination process involves extensive paperwork and background checks. Colleen Shogan emphasizes the importance of following the law as Archivist.
• The nomination process can be politically charged and stressful.
• Shogan faced a second nomination hearing that felt unnecessary.
• Traveling to meet NARA employees was a priority for her.
• She implemented visitor services at the National Archives to enhance public engagement.
• Accessing presidential records was a unique experience for Shogan.
• She supported initiatives to digitize artifacts for public access.
• Her dismissal from the position was unexpected and upsetting.
• The archivist plays a crucial role in validating electoral documents.
• Shogan plans to continue her work in civics education.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to the Archivist's Role
• 02:50 The Scope of the National Archives
• 06:07 Presidential Records and Their Management
• 08:49 The Process of Record Submission
• 12:08 Colleen Shogan's Journey to the Archivist Position
• 14:56 Navigating the Nomination Process
• 20:08 Confirmation Challenges and Political Dynamics
• 26:32 Navigating the Nomination Process
• 30:01 Becoming the Archivist of the United States
• 32:10 Day-to-Day as Archivist
• 34:21 Accessing Presidential Records
• 37:12 Insights from Presidential Libraries
• 40:51 Dismissal by Tweet
• 44:06 Role of the Archivist in Elections
• 48:22 The Importance of Historical Records
• 51:44 Reflections on Service and Future Plans