The pace of change at the Burke Museum has increased tremendously over the past few years. We find ourselves at a critical yet opportune time, to reflect on the museum's role within the context of our changing world. The internet has altered the cultural landscape forever, just as global warming is altering the environment.

Museums cannot be the same institutions in this new century. They must become increasingly relevant as places of cultural understanding, artistic exploration and environmental stewardship. Thanks to support from the Annual Fund, the Burke is effectively making this transition, with award-winning digital communications, expanded educational outreach and national traveling exhibits on the critical cultural and environmental issues of our time.

As the Burke adapts to meet the challenges of the 21st century, we remain committed to the multiple communities that we serve — locally, regionally, nationally and globally. Whether on-site, or through traveling programs and exhibits, or via the web, we provide a forum that brings people together to contemplate, learn about and better understand the world and our place in it. As Nancy Moses observes in her recently published book, Lost in the Museum: Buried Treasures and the Stories They Tell Us:

"Set on a knoll on the campus of the University of Washington in Seattle, the Burke is not like its counterparts I know in the East. Its mission stretches beyond preserving cultural artifacts to helping living communities sustain their culture. The doors of the Burke swing both ways; it invites diverse ethnic communities in and takes its expertise out to them, sharing ownership in the very process of museum making. This activist stance infuses the place with a vitality that often goes missing in more hide-bound institutions."

I'm pleased to recognize the following board members, all of whom embody the Burke's dedication to community service, education and cultural understanding.

Christine Hurley has been a leadership volunteer with the Burke since 1999, and is a past president of the BMA. As co-chair of the Nominating Committee, Chris is dedicated to building the board and promoting the Burke throughout the Seattle community.

Wiley Kitchell is a partner and managing director of Moss Adams LLC, and the newest BMA director. With a strong interest in Anthropology, he is especially interested in the Burke's Native art collection.

Eleanor Nolan served on the Burke's development council, and has been with the BMA since its inception. Eleanor and her husband Charles are active philanthropists throughout the Seattle community.

Greg Blume is Chief Financial and Operating Officer for The Blume Company. As a new board member, he brings great real estate and capital campaign expertise to the BMA.

Alan Rabinowitz is a retired UW professor and urban planner. A charter member of the Advisory Council and BMA, Alan returned as a director in 2006.

Kelly Tweeddale is Administrative Director for the Seattle Opera. A BMA member since 2003, she serves as vice-president.

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