Strategic Framework NHMLAC
The Natural History Museums of Los Angeles County (NHMLAC)—the Natural History Museum in Exposition Park, La Brea Tar Pits in the mid-Wilshire/Miracle Mile, and the William S. Hart Museum in Newhall—occupy an unrivaled position in the exploration of L.A., and the world.
As home to over 35 million specimens and artifacts, we have the largest natural and cultural history collection in the western United States, a range of indoor and outdoor experiences across our three sites which served 1.3 million visitors a year, and the only active urban paleontological excavation site in the world at the Tar Pits.
—Shannon Faulk, Former President of the Board of Trustees
Our Vision
To inspire wonder, discovery, and responsibility for our natural and cultural worlds.
Our Values
Adventurous
We are curious and bold, with an insatiable desire to discover and share new ideas and knowledge.
Inclusive
We foster and promote accessibility, collaboration, and respect for all, both within NHMLAC and out in our community.
Authentic
We inspire trust by sharing with our audiences our unparalleled collections and active research to help them better understand the world around.
Intentional
We are driven by our core principle of studying, educating, and inspiring audiences about our natural and cultural worlds.
—Lori Bettison-Varga, President and Director
Strategic Goals
1. EXPAND OUR ROLE AS MUSEUMS Of, FOR, AND with L.A.
To become “museums of, for, and with L.A.,” the Natural History Museums of Los Angeles County will strive to welcome, understand, reflect, and cultivate meaningful relationships with its local communities. By celebrating and illuminating L.A.’s rich natural and cultural history and diversity, we will serve as a civic anchor for the community, a partner for the County, and a hub for telling stories with global relevance and local impact.
2. CREATE A NEW INTERDISCIPLINARY MODEL FOR UNDERSTANDING AND CONNECTING TO URBAN NATURE
NHMLAC has a distinct opportunity to be a global leader in researching and understanding the complex and ever-evolving relationship that lies at the intersection of nature, cities, and people. By harnessing our globally renowned community science and urban nature research programs, our vast collections documenting how nature and culture have changed as L.A. has grown, and the remarkable biodiversity of this metropolitan region, we will play a critical role influencing the sustainable development of L.A., and urban areas worldwide.
3. STRENGTHEN AND ACTIVATE OUR RESEARCH AND COLLECTIONS TO CREATE AND COMMUNICATE NEW KNOWLEDGE ABOUT OUR WORLD
NHMLAC’s collection is an unparalleled global resource that must be studied, enhanced, protected, and experienced to advance the discovery and understanding of the natural and cultural worlds in the past, present, and future. By creating a bold and forward-thinking plan to increase resources and expand access, we will inspire the broadest public to become stewards of the Earth.