Here’s what it’s like inside the National Academy of Sciences Building.
A spectacular setting on Constitution Avenue
I recently had the pleasure of attending the 76th Annual Arthur S. Flemming Awards at the National Academy of Sciences Building, and I was truly captivated. This historic DC building, dedicated in 1924, was designed by the famous architect Bertram Grosvenor Goodhue. It is easily one of the best event spaces in Washington DC. While located right on Constitution Avenue, many people walk past without realizing the splendor inside. The vast Great Hall is absolutely breathtaking. It features an incredible mosaic dome by artist Hildreth Meière depicting the “History of Science as Known in 1922.” The intricate, gilded designs are not traditional tiles but a brilliant innovation: painted and gilded raised gesso on Guastavino acoustic plaster. This method was used to create the stunning visual effect of mosaics while maintaining the hall’s acoustic integrity.
Honoring excellence in federal service
The event, co-hosted by the George Washington University Trachtenberg School and the National Academy of Public Administration (NAPA), honored twelve outstanding federal employees. The building itself is perfectly suited for such a prestigious ceremony. The awards were presented in the Fred Kavli Auditorium, a 670-seat theater renowned for its “acoustically brilliant” design. The Great Hall and other sophisticated rooms were perfect for the reception. Finding the venue was simple, and the convenient drop-off areas made access easy. For those driving, parking near the Lincoln Memorial was moderately easy to find, making this a highly accessible spot for Washington DC events.
A meaningful celebration during Native American Heritage Month
This particular evening was personally very moving. As a member of the Navajo Nation and someone who has worked with many Native American non-profits, it was a powerful moment. November is Native American Heritage Month, and seeing Lt. Cmdr. Melissa de Vera, a member of the Rocky Boy Chippewa Cree Tribe, honored for her leadership with the Indian Health Service was truly special. Her vital work helps bring clean water and sanitation infrastructure to tribal nations, a cause that resonates deeply with my own background.
A perfect convergence of hospitality and history
The whole evening was a wonderful experience! The hospitality was excellent, the historic DC building was magnificent, and the cause was inspiring. Seeing my personal interests in Native American advocacy and my professional life in Washington DC come together for such a great Sunday evening was a perfect convergence. The National Academy of Sciences Building is truly one of DC’s top-tier venues, blending stunning architecture with a prime location.
