The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum held a ceremonial ribbon cutting for their new exhibit In Step With Betty Ford on April 10, 2018 in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The grand opening event coincided with Betty Ford’s Centennial Birthday celebrations.

Lynda Bird Johnson Robb, daughter of Lyndon and Lady Bird Johnson, joined as a special guest with Susan Ford Bales, daughter of Gerald and Betty Ford, and five of Betty Ford’s cousins: Martha, Karla, Karen, Lori, and Gary. They were also joined by Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation Chairman Emeritus Marty Allen and also Foundation Trustees Steve Van Andel and David Hooker.

Foundation Executive Director Joseph Calvaruso welcomed guests and gave opening remarks. He acknowledged the work and support of the Museum staff in bringing the exhibit to life, noting that the In Step With Betty Ford exhibit was solely self-curated by the Museum.

Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum Director Elaine Didier remarked that the opening of the exhibit to the public was brought together by months of hard work by numerous staff at both the Museum and Library. The work included investigative research, artifact selection, and construction of exhibit sets.

Didier further noted that the Library in Ann Arbor, Michigan was hosting a smaller satellite exhibit for Betty Ford in its lobby and that the National Archives in Washington, D.C. was hosting a special exhibit in honor of Betty Ford.

Museum Supervisory Curator Don Holloway, thanked all of the staff members of the Library and Museum for all of their hard work on research, design, construction, and project management on the exhibit. He highlighted how the exhibit showcased numerous photos and artifacts but also a dance floor, honoring Betty Ford’s love of dance.

Following the remarks, the special guests cut the ceremony ribbon opening the exhibit to the public.

‘In Step With Betty Ford’ Exhibit Grand Opening

Pin It on Pinterest

Share This