View Topping Off Ceremony event photos on Flickr
“…this Museum is not a monument to any one man or any one presidency. Rather, it is a classroom of American democracy, a place where school kids as well as scholars will enjoy privileged access to the inmost workings of their government.” – Gerald R. Ford, April 17, 1999 Remarks at Rededication of the Museum
The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum officially closed until Spring 2016 as a ‘Topping Off’ Ceremony was held as part of the next phase of its construction upgrade. The new developments include the DeVos Learning Center, new exhibits and greater access into the historic legacy of Gerald R. Ford and Betty Ford.
Foundation Chairman Red Cavaney provided opening remarks and introduced Dr. Jim Gardner, Executive for Legislative Archives, Presidential Libraries and Museum Services. Gardner acknowledged that the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum was unique throughout the Presidential Library & Museum system as it is undertaking both a building expansion and renovations of the galleries at the same time. He also felt the upgrades will provide the Museum with the potential opportunity to be a National Archives and Records Administration flagship for civic literacy, educational programing that helps the public learn about government records and inspire citizens to more actively participate in the American democratic process.
Foundation Trustee Steve Ford thanked the DeVos family, in particular Rich DeVos, for their generosity and support in starting the capital campaign for the construction and updates. Ford commented on the Museum’s new role in allowing everyone, but in particular young people, to learn about their government, providing a state-of-the-art facility to become engaged in civics and the opportunity to learn more about the legacy of his father and mother.
Foundation Trustee Doug DeVos remarked on how President Ford’s legacy was a tremendous example of leadership during a difficult time for country. Throughout his presidency, Gerald R. Ford served as a leader with roots from Grand Rapids, but also served as a leader that all Americans would be honored to have as President. DeVos added that with the ability to bring to life Ford’s records and historic accounts, visitors and students will soon have the opportunity to learn from Gerald R. Ford’s example and connect his legacy in relevant ways to today’s generation.
The Museum will increase its building capacity by 8,000 square feet, adding a two-story addition for the new DeVos Learning Center. State-of-the-art technology and improvements will be incorporated throughout the Museum, allowing the Museum to exhibit more artifacts and engage in a deeper conversation about the history of the Gerald R. Ford and Betty Ford, and their impact on our nation during extraordinary times.
