Tamara Martin Appointed Director of the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum

Washington, DC

Acting Archivist of the United States Debra Steidel Wall today announced the appointment of Tamara K. Martin as the new Director of the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum in Yorba Linda, CA, effective April 24.

In making the announcement, Acting Archivist Wall said, “Ms. Martin’s extensive experience leading archival operations and public programs for the State of California, especially in the areas of access and digitization, will be of tremendous value to the National Archives and our Presidential Library system.” 

Ms. Martin comes to the Nixon Presidential Library from her position as California State Archivist, a role she has held since 2019. She directs one of the largest state archives in the United States and leads a staff of more than 40. Martin recently oversaw the division-wide implementation of new technology and funding, more accessible public services, and expanded public programming, educational resources, and exhibits celebrating California’s history and diversity. Previously, Martin served as the Managing Archivist and California Deputy State Archivist for the California State Archives, a division of the California Secretary of State’s Office. 

Ms. Martin has extensive experience leading teams, developing public programming, and fostering new strategic partnerships. Prior to joining the Secretary of State’s Office, Martin worked for the City of Napa coordinating the care and access to the city’s archival records. She previously worked as an archivist with the Alabama Department of Archives and History, providing records management for Alabama’s state and local government agencies. Martin holds a master of arts degree in history and a bachelor of arts degree in history from American Public University.

“On behalf of the Richard Nixon Foundation, I join the Acting Archivist in welcoming Tamara Martin to the Nixon Library’s campus. I look forward to working with her to advance the legacy of President and Mrs. Nixon,” Jim Byron, President and CEO of the Richard Nixon Foundation, said in a statement.

The Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum is one of 15 libraries in the Presidential  Library system administered by the National Archives and Records Administration. The Presidential Libraries house the records of Presidents Herbert Hoover through Donald Trump and preserve and provide access to historical materials, support research, and create interactive programs and exhibits that educate and inspire.