Lincoln University joined Princeton University and five HBCUs from across the country to launch a program to introduce students to archival science and collaborative history. The program, titled Archives Research and Collaborative History (ARCH) held its inaugural weeklong session in July.
President Brenda A. Allen addressed the attendees. Lincoln University librarians Sophia Sotilleo and Jessica Garner also participated as instructors.
The goal of ARCH is to introduce HBCU students to the archival field. Students explored the importance of diversity in archival collections, how to use primary-source documents and potential career opportunities through a series of lectures, discussions, and workshop activities.
The program also encouraged students to make connections between historical narratives and present-day social justice issues. “Archives play a crucial role in our understanding of history, which includes the importance of diversity within that history,” said Anne Jarvis, Princeton’s Robert H. Taylor 1930 University Librarian. After a competitive application process, four Lincoln students were selected: Alaza Clausell,
Taylor Brookins, Kaya Mosley, and Madison Washington.
“Archives are important to have,” said Madison Washington ’18, a Pan-Africana studies major from Vallejo, California. “You’re able to go back and see what was being discussed, what was being looked at, what was being done, and bring a new interpretation to it.”
Lincoln’s history and connection to Princeton University dates back to the 19th century when Lincoln was colloquially known as the Black Princeton due to its Princetoneducated faculty, rigorous academics, and dominant presence in collegiate debating.
This story was written based oninformation in a July 30, 2018 article, Princeton University Library partners with HBCUs in inaugural archiving program, by Danielle Alio, Office of Communications, Princeton University.
