FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Evanston, Ill (January 28, 2015) — Charles Benton was recently named by President Obama to the National Museum and Library Services Board. Mr. Benton previously filled a predecessor’s role and now will serve an appointment through 2018. The appointment marks Mr. Benton’s sixth residential appointment under three different Presidents, including Presidents Carter, Clinton, and now Obama. Mr. Benton and his wife, Marjorie, currently live at The Mather in Evanston, and he is Chairman and CEO of the Benton Foundation, a position he has held since 1981.
“There are so many amazing residents at The Mather, each with a wonderful story to tell. To have Mr. Benton recognized with a presidential appointment is indeed an honor, but not a surprise, and we are grateful to him for his service,” said Mary Leary, CEO and president of Mather LifeWays.
About the administration posts, including Mr. Benton, according to a White House press release President Obama said, “I am grateful that these impressive individuals have chosen to dedicate their talents to serving the American people at this important time for our country. I look forward to working with them in the months and years ahead.”
Mr. Benton said he is excited about the future possibilities as the Board supports the advancement of library, museum and information services for the nation. Closer to home, Mr. Benton says he is also encouraged by the direction and future of the Evanston Public Library which he describes as “a terrific institution” with a “crack pro running it.”
In 1978, Mr. Benton served as Chairman of the National Commission on Libraries and Information Services and Chairman of the first White House Conference on Library and Information Services in 1979. Mr. Benton served as Member of the Presidential Advisory Committee on the Public Interest Obligations of Digital Television Broadcasters from 1997 to 1998 and on the Consumer Advisory Committee of the FCC from 2005 to 2010. He was President of the Encyclopedia Britannica Education Corporation from 1996 to 1997 and Films Inc., from 1968 to 1977. Mr. Benton is Chairman of Public Media Inc., and Chairman Emeritus of the Partnership for a Connected Illinois. He serves on the boards of the National Foundation for the Preservation of Film and The Educational Development Center. He is a Lifetime Trustee of the Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago. He received a B.A. from Yale University.