Maryland archivist and former college lecturer, Melissa Prunty Kemp, has been appointed to the board of directors of BlackPast.org. Kemp will serve a two-year term through December 2026, bringing her expertise in archival strategies and grant writing to the organization.
Board Chair Doug Bender expressed his excitement about Kemp joining the board, highlighting her technical proficiency and long-standing familiarity with protecting and preserving important documents and artifacts. With experience teaching African American literature and creative writing at various institutions, Kemp's knowledge and passion will be valuable assets to BlackPast.org.
Kemp's educational background includes a Bachelor of Arts degree from Hollins University, a Master of Arts degree in English from Virginia Tech, and a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from Queens University. She also holds a Masters in Archives and Records Administration from San Jose State University.
Throughout her career, Kemp has managed and maintained various collections of records and conducted numerous oral history interviews, showcasing her dedication to preserving historical narratives. Currently serving as the Digital Production Librarian at Morgan State University, Kemp's experience in archiving and history will contribute to BlackPast.org's mission of providing educational resources on African ancestry.
BlackPast.org, a nonprofit organization founded in 2007, aims to provide reference information on people of African ancestry globally. Supported by volunteers and content contributors from around the world, the website offers a wealth of educational content on notable Black individuals and events. As BlackPast.org continues to expand its offerings, Melissa Prunty Kemp's appointment to the board of directors signifies a commitment to excellence and continued growth in providing valuable educational resources to a global audience.
