Press/Journalists

National Archives Assistant Archivist for Records Services Retires
Press Release · Friday, February 11, 2011

Washington, DC

 

Washington, DC…Assistant Archivist for Records Services, Washington DC, Dr. Michael Kurtz, announced his intention to retire from the National Archives and Records Administration March 3, 2011, after 37 years of service to become a visiting professor at the University of Maryland.

In announcing his retirement to staff, Dr. Kurtz said he was particularly proud of “the staff cross-training program, the Archives Technician Career Development program, management development for current and emerging managers, and the creation of upward mobility archives specialist positions that have strengthened individual and organizational capabilities.” He added, “Together we have accomplished so much.”

Archivist of the United States David S. Ferriero cited the many accomplishments and contributions of Dr. Kurtz, including “the creation of the National Declassification Center, forging a national records management program, vastly increasing the volume of records preserved, processed and described, ensuring digital access to hundreds of millions of records from our holdings, and the design and implementation of the National Archives Experience.” Mr. Ferriero added that “We look forward to working with Dr. Kurtz in his new role at the University of Maryland which will be an extension of his important service to the National Archives.”

Dr. Kurtz began his tenure at the National Archives as an archives technician working in records declassification. He subsequently worked in a variety of archival and management positions in several of the Agency’s major program areas. In addition, Dr. Kurtz served as the first chair of the Interagency Working Group tasked with implementing the Nazi War Crimes Disclosure Act, which resulted in the release of eight million pages of previously classified information. Dr. Kurtz also represented the National Archives for many years on the Interagency Security Classification Appeals Panel, which is the appellate authority for classification challenges and mandatory declassification requests.

Dr. Kurtz is joining the faculty of the College of Information Studies (iSchool) at the University of Maryland where he will teach in the College’s Archives, Records and Information Management program. Dr. Kurtz will also work with other faculty members in developing new course offerings and program initiatives.

Dean of the University of Maryland iSchool Jennifer Preece said, "Students, faculty and staff are excited that Dr. Kurtz is joining the iSchool. He will bring knowledge and stature to our teaching programs and research and he will help to continue the special relationship that we have with the National Archives."

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For press information, contact the National Archives Public Affairs staff at 202-357-5300.

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