New at the Smithsonian

G. Wayne Clough will face daunting challenges.

HERE'S WHAT awaits G. Wayne Clough at the Smithsonian Institution: remnants of scandal, crumbling facilities, uncertain finances and a wary public. That such a distinguished academician is eager to tackle these challenges says much about the Smithsonian's appeal. It's also reason to be cautiously optimistic about the future of this special place.

Mr. Clough, a noted scientist and the well-regarded president of Georgia Institute of Technology, has been named 12th secretary of the Smithsonian. His appointment comes a year after controversy forced the ouster of Lawrence M. Small and called into question the overall management of the institution. The choice of an outsider is a clear signal that the institution's board of regents, whose lax oversight enabled lavish spending and questionable practices by Smithsonian executives, want a clean slate as they seek to rebuild trust. The careful process that led to Mr. Clough, as well as his reasonable compensation package, is the result of board soul-searching into its own failings. Interim Secretary Cristi¿n Samper, while bypassed for permanent appointment, is credited with implementing important reforms and restoring morale. His return to director of the National Museum of Natural History further strengthens the Smithsonian's leadership.

No question there is much to be done. Foremost is a $2.5 billion backlog of building repairs and improvements that restrict public access and threaten priceless collections. The prowess Mr. Clough showed in overseeing capital campaigns at Georgia Tech will come in handy. The Smithsonian is funded with both public and private funds, but for too long the board resisted using private money for repairs, saying donors preferred underwriting exhibits and research. The board is said to be readying a plan for a national campaign to tap into Americans' interest in protecting the nation's treasures and wants the incoming secretary to get involved.

It's also hoped that Mr. Clough can engage Congress in a responsible discussion about its obligations. Part of the Smithsonian's predicament comes from years of underfunding by lawmakers who demanded more facilities and programs even while second-guessing reasonable suggestions on how to raise money. Mr. Clough's credentials as a scientist and his experience at public universities should stand him in good stead when he takes over in July. So far, he has struck all the right notes: "We need to communicate, we need to be transparent, we need to be open, we need a plan, and we need to reinvigorate the excitement about the Smithsonian," he said. Then, too, we appreciate his willingness to fly coach.