The National Aquarium Society

“Prior to the filing of the form 990, the finance and audit committee will review the form and then a copy of the form will be provided electronically to all board members.”

“As stated in the organization's conflict of interest policy, annually each board member and key employee is requested to complete a conflict of interest disclosure and indicate any potential conflicts. A summary of the disclosures is reviewed by the finance and audit committee of the board and any and all appropriate actions are then taken in accordance with the policy. Additionally the summary of disclosures is distributed to key employees to enhance their awareness when contemplating and/or entering into business transactions.”

“The national aquarium society (nas) has its governing documents and conflict of interest policies available to the public upon request. Financial statements are available upon request, on the website, and are included with publications associated with the national aquarium institute, inc.'s annual report. They are also available through not-for-profit internet portals such as guidestar and charity navigator.”

“In may, 2013, the board of directors of the national aquarium, washington, dc (nadc) announced that, due to renovations in the department of commerce building, the facility would be closed on september 30, 2013. The general services administration (gsa) required nadc to vacate its space in the building by march 2014 to accommodate these renovations. Therefore, the national aquarium society discontinued its financial activities during 2013 and transferred a majority of its net assets to the national aquarium in baltimore, inc. The remaining net assets will be transferred in 2014 to the national aquarium in baltimore foundation, inc. However, as a result of the move from this location, the national aquarium society incurred a loss on disposal of assets that could not be saved, this loss is properly reflected in part viii, form 990, line 7 in the amount of $1,912,151. The september closing date allowed nadc to meet gsa's march deadline using a timeline that accommodated its main priority: the needs of its animals and staff. The collection of more than 1,500 animals has been transitioned to new homes at national aquarium, baltimore, and at other accredited aquariums. A board task force has embarked on a feasibility study to explore future opportunities in the nation's capital. The closure will not impact the operation of national aquarium, baltimore, one of the nation's leading aquariums. For the latest updates on nadc, including animal moves, the closing process, and future plans in the capital, please visit www.aqua.org/dc.”