From headquarters

Video of AMS Headquarters Now Available

In the summer of 1999, the AMS Executive Committee approved special initiative funding in response to a request from the Local Chapter Affairs Committee for the creation of a video that could be provided to local chapters to present a view of the historic character of the AMS Headquarters building, as well as a glimpse of activities that take place there. The video was produced during the fall and is now available.

A significant portion of the video highlights the historical aspects of the third Harrison Gray Otis House on Beacon Street, which serves as home to AMS Headquarters, and how the AMS came to obtain it. The video also shows how the house is being used now to serve the membership and the scientific community. Through interviews with some of the staff members, it describes some of the major programs of the Society.

Two days were required to properly light and shoot the museum-like atmosphere of the building. A third day was used to capture the everyday working environment at Headquarters. A final day was needed to film interviews of key AMS personnel describing the responsibilities of each of the departments, such as meetings, membership services, publications, etc. A copy of the 30-minute video is being distributed to each local chapter of the AMS. Additional copies are available for loan at no charge. It is hoped that distribution of the video will give members and potential members who have not visited Headquarters an idea of what goes on at the hub of the Society and an appreciation for the unique environment that the staff is privileged to work in.