Bishop Museum Reduces Staff and Hours

Bishop Museum today announced it has implemented its next step in a restructuring plan described in a media statement issued on April 10th to better position the institution in these continued adverse economic conditions.  The plan included a reduction of its hours of operation, closing to the public on Tuesdays beginning May 5th and temporarily ceasing public hours at its Hawai‘i Maritime Center effective May 1st.  It also included reducing 19 staff positions and moving to a 36 hour work week.  These reductions represent approximately 8% of the Museum’s total staff and included both management and non-management personnel.  These measures are expected to save the institution approximately $1.8 million in its next fiscal year budget.

President & CEO Timothy Johns stated:

“Our restructure of the organization in 2008 placed us in a strong position to manage what many predicted to be an anticipated downturn in the economy.  Unfortunately the economic impact of the financial crisis to our nation was far more significant than anticipated. Like many organizations in the community, Bishop Museum is not immune to the depressed economic conditions facing our State.  Although it is necessary at this time to make these additional adjustments to our operations, our long-term prospects for growth and sustainability remain strong. We are committed to projects such as the renovation of Hawaiian Hall opening in August of this year and to continuing to serve the community and provide world-class programs, research and exhibits.”

“We are also committed to assisting our employees through this difficult time, and will be providing severance packages, offering counseling, and job placement services for those affected.”

Bishop Museum was founded in 1889 by Charles Reed Bishop in honor of his wife, Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop.  Today, it is the State Museum of Natural and Cultural History with 24 million cataloged objects.  For more information, please visit www.bishopmuseum.org or call (808) 847-3511. 

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