Smithsonian: More than “not” Urban: Serving People and Place in Rural Minnesota

A community conversation to learn about how the Smithsonian Institution is deepening its work with rural and tribal communities across America.

Rural America often defies definition. Traditional measures like population, distance and access don’t always capture the resilience, innovation, creativity and civic engagement that make rural communities unique. And while Duluth isn’t rural by definition, many of our residents come from rural communities and we serve many in our surrounding region.

Guided by findings from a nationwide Rural Needs Sensing Report, the Smithsonian’s Rural Initiative works to support rural communities by addressing the cultural, educational, and economic priorities of both the people and the place. During this free public discussion, Rural Initiative Director, Andy Mink will share insights from research and community collaborations that have strengthened and supported community well-being across the country.

We want to hear from you: What are Duluth’s greatest strengths? What challenges lie ahead? How should the rest of the nation understand Duluth’s story? What can other communities learn from our region? How can the Smithsonian partner with and support our community?

Event Schedule:
5:30 p.m. – Reception with complimentary snacks and a cash bar
6:00 p.m. – Presentation by Andy Mink, Director Rural Initiative, Office of the Under Secretary for Education
7:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. – Q & A

This event marks a long-term partnership between the Smithsonian Institution and Duluth.