by 
Cultural Heritage Consultant and Former Director | Smithsonian Cultural Rescue Initiative
Corine Wegener is a cultural heritage consultant, art historian, and retired U.S. Army Reserve officer specializing in protecting cultural property in times of conflict and disaster. As Founding Director of the Smithsonian Cultural Rescue Initiative (2012–2024) and past president of the U.S. Committee of the Blue Shield, she has led global heritage protection efforts in partnership with UNESCO, the U.S. military, and museums worldwide. A recognized expert in cultural property protection policy, training, and disaster response, Wegener continues to advise organizations on safeguarding the world’s shared heritage. Wegener has a BGS in Political Science from the University of Nebraska Omaha and MA degrees in Political Science and Art History from the University of Kansas.
