International Tennis Hall of Fame named Smithsonian affiliate

NEWPORT – The International Tennis Hall of Fame in Newport earned a designation as an official affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C., the ITHF announced on Wednesday.

“We are incredibly excited about our partnership with the Smithsonian Institution, as it immediately benefits our members, visitors and future tennis fans immeasurably,” said Doug Stark, ITHF museum director, in a statement. “We can provide our guests with a more enriching experience and create lasting experiences by providing more in-depth content, as well as expanding the reach of tennis by sharing our resources nationally.”

The ITHF is the first sports Hall of Fame in the nation to be designated a Smithsonian Affiliate, and will be joining the R.I. Historical Society as the second institution in Rhode Island to receive the honor.

According to a press release, Smithsonian Institution affiliates reap benefits such as access to object and exhibit loans, discounted Smithsonian memberships for its patrons, custom-developed education and public programs. The ITHF said the two organizations have already begun discussion of collaborative projects. The ITHF expressed in the press release a desire to expand accessible educational programs, specifically.

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The ITHF was established in 1954. It is a nonprofit institution that preserves and promotes the history of tennis.

Chris Bergenheim is the PBN web editor.