PRESIDENT'S LETTER As the 32nd President of the National Academy, I take delight in having a part to play in preserving the rich history of past academicians, but more importantly, I am honored to represent the living artists. I will give it my all. I believe the Academy has an important role to play through our very specialized structure. The close working relationship between the artists who govern the institution and the professional staff is what makes the National Academy truly unique. Among the oldest art institutions in the United States, the Academy today is an honorary association of artists, a museum, and a school of fine arts, and includes many of America's most prominent painters, sculptors, architects, and printmakers. Today, more than 357 contemporary artists are members of the Academy. Elected by their peers, all National Academicians submit examples of their work upon acceptance of the honor. Contributions by the Academy's artist members have formed one of the most distinguished institutional collections of American art. The Academy both strives to encourage young professional artists to exhibit and eventually join our ranks, while paying homage to our long term Academicians who have weathered the highs and lows that are inevitable in an art career. Academicians continue to contribute to society through their commitment and talent which they often pass on through master classes and critiques at our school. The School's atelier approach allows for in depth development of skills in drawing, painting, printmaking, and sculpture. The Academy continues public programs such as the monthly Review Panel, in which art critics led by David Cohen, editor of artcritical.com, keep audiences abreast of current exhibitions in New York City. Under the auspices of the Edward Abbey Mural Fund Committee, we extend our public outreach through mural workshops, commissions, lectures and tours. We have many educational programs associated with our exhibitions and they carry on the 183 years of tradition that stand for this venerable institution. Susan Shatter President, National Academy Museum and School of Fine Arts