MARA Blog
MARA Blog
Students in the MARA program and those interested in archives and preservation, electronic records management, information governance, and related fields are highly encouraged to visit this blog often. Managed by MARA Program Coordinator Darra Hofman and written by a current MARA student, this blog will keep you current with the MARA community and what’s happening in the profession.
Smithsonian Fall Internships Offer Cultural Heritage Experience
Smithsonian Fall Internships Offer Cultural Heritage Experience
Published by Andrew Wiegert, October 1st, 2025
It’s Workshop Wednesday! Today’s post highlights an internship, apprenticeship, or consulting project opportunity. These experiences are the building blocks of a successful career in archives and records management. We encourage you to think about how practical experience can complement your coursework and guide your career path.
Great 78 Project Settlement Highlights Preservation vs. Copyright
When copyright clashes with preservation: the Great 78 Project settlement.
Published by Andrew Wiegert, September 29th, 2025
Welcome to Media Monday! Each week we share a recent article, story, or update from the world of archives, records management, and information governance. The goal is to keep you informed about trends, challenges, and innovations shaping the field and to help you connect what you’re learning in the MARA program with real-world developments.
Colonial-Era Photographs Restored Through IGNCA Initiative
Revitalizing 19th century photos with Indian ingenuity
Published by Andrew Wiegert, September 5th, 2025
Manager of Data Governance – Ropes & Gray LLP
Shape enterprise-wide data standards and stewardship.
Published by Andrew Wiegert, October 3rd, 2025
You’ll lead the firm’s data governance initiatives—defining policies, managing metadata, overseeing data quality, and promoting data stewardship and compliance through catalogs/stewardship platforms like Collibra or Ataccama. Collaboration with legal, compliance, and tech stakeholders is a key part of the role.
Link:
https://careers-ropesgray.icims.com/jobs/8684/manager-of-data-governance/job
Director of Knowledge, Records, and Information Management – John D. & Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation (Chicago, IL / Hybrid)
Lead transformative record-keeping in philanthropy.
Published by Andrew Wiegert, September 26th, 2025
A senior leadership role, you’ll develop and implement strategies for knowledge, records, and RIM across the Foundation. Key tasks include leveraging AI and other technologies for efficient information access, guiding cultural adoption, and overseeing lifecycle policies. This is a high-impact role at the intersection of information stewardship and innovation.
Link:
Information Governance Specialist – Ropes & Gray LLP (Boston, MA)
Become a trusted IG advisor in a top global law firm.
Published by Andrew Wiegert, September 19th, 2025
As part of the Information Governance (IG) team, you’ll manage the lifecycle of client and firm data, from indexing physical records and guiding users through email/data migration, to ensuring disposition compliance and mentoring staff. Expect a dynamic role collaborating across levels and systems like iManage, Relativity, and IRM tools.
Link:
https://slis-jobline.simmons.edu/2024/11/12/information-governance-specialist-ropes-gray/
Records Manager & Information Governance Specialist Riemer & Braunstein LLP (Boston, MA)
Lead records strategy at a respected law firm.
Published by Andrew Wiegert, September 12th, 2025
Riemer & Braunstein LLP seeks a skilled professional with 3+ years’ experience in records management or information governance—ideally within legal or regulated contexts. Key qualifications include a bachelor’s degree (advanced degree or certifications like CRM, IGP, CIP preferred), deep knowledge of GDPR, HIPAA, NIST, and a proven ability to manage sensitive data in secure environments. This role favors autonomous initiative and cross-department collaboration.
Link:
Zasio Launches “Versatile 2025″ Records Platform
Unified governance suite hits the market.
Published by Andrew Wiegert, October 3rd, 2025
Zasio unveiled Versatile 2025, its most comprehensive information governance and records management suite yet. The update consolidates physical records, electronic records, and retention schedule features into a seamless platform.
Link:
https://zasio.com/zasio-versatile-2025-records-management-software/
NARA Sees Encouraging Progress Toward Fully Electronic Records
Federal archives go digital—fast approaching paperless era.
Published by Andrew Wiegert, September 26th, 2025
According to recent remarks by the acting Chief Records Officer, 71% of U.S. federal agencies met the July 2024 deadline to manage permanent records electronically. While some agencies requested exceptions to retain paper formats, the trend reflects meaningful strides toward modernizing records management and aligning with NARA’s directives.
Link
Political Shockwaves at the National Archives
Archivist ousted—transparency under threat?
Published by Andrew Wiegert, September 19th, 2025
President Trump abruptly fired Archivist Colleen Shogan in February 2025, leading to a cascade of resignations and retirements within the agency. Acting leadership, including Marco Rubio and Jim Byron, took over amidst deep concerns about the Archives being politicized and deviating from its nonpartisan mission.
Link:
CDC Records Deletion Deemed “Likely Unlawful”
Judge halts CDC’s mass email deletion policy.
Published by Andrew Wiegert, September 12th, 2025
A U.S. District Judge ruled that the CDC’s practice of deleting departing employees’ emails—90 days post-departure—is “likely unlawful.” The agency failed to adhere to the approved retention period under the Capstone protocol (three to seven years), prompting the injunction to force compliance until the case concludes.
Link:
https://www.politico.com/news/2024/08/09/cdc-records-lawsuit-ruling-00173416
The California State Archives now has Graduate Internship positions available!
Apply by: August 31, 2025
Published by Andrew Wiegert, August 21st, 2025
Report – 2025 NAGARA Conference in OKC
My reflections on attending my first social gathering of (largely) introverts
Published by Andrew Wiegert, August 9th, 2025
Archives Technician – Lake Mead National Recreation Area via Great Basin Institute
Boulder City, NV - Help archive nature’s stories in the desert sands
Published by Andrew Wiegert, September 5th, 2025
Amistad Research Center Faces Federal Cuts
Black history on the brink—but holding on
Published by Andrew Wiegert, August 29th, 2025
Digital Archivist – Mount Auburn Cemetery
Cambridge, MA - Digitizing history in America’s oldest garden cemetery
Published by Andrew Wiegert, August 29th, 2025
National Archives to Showcase Rare Founding Documents in New Exhibition Series
Unlocking America’s past, one vault at a time
Published by Andrew Wiegert, August 22nd, 2025
Library Archives Operations Manager – Charlotte Mecklenburg Library
Charlotte, NC - Manage Charlotte’s collective memory with style
Published by Andrew Wiegert, August 22nd, 2025
NY State Museum Appoints First Woman Director
Historic leadership for a museum rooted in history
Published by Andrew Wiegert, August 15th, 2025
Institutional Archivist – The National WWII Museum
New Orleans, LA - Guard history where stories shaped our world.
Published by Andrew Wiegert, August 15th, 2025