In honor of American Archives Month, on Oct. 2, WVU Libraries is proud to host Dr. Colleen Shogan, Archivist of the United States, for a full day visit to showcase the Libraries’ special and historical collections, as well as illustrate our methods and dedication to acquiring, preserving and providing access to materials in all formats that illuminate both local and national history and culture.
“History enables us to imagine our future. It invigorates and strengthens our democracy and points the way toward progress,” Dean of WVU Libraries Karen Diaz said. “As the nation’s record keeper, Dr. Shogan is responsible for preserving, protecting and sharing the history of our nation and we at WVU Libraries are delighted to host the Archivist as she expands the reach of this vital mission.”
For the day’s main event, Dr. Shogan will discuss the role of archives and records in strengthening the nation’s democracy, the vital importance of preserving and understanding history and the work of the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) in a moderated conversation with Dr. Lisa DeFrank-Cole, professor and director of Leadership Studies at WVU.
The main event is open to students, faculty and the public, and all those interested can RSVP here.
Prior to her conversation with Dr. DeFrank-Cole, Dr. Shogan will tour the West Virginia & Regional History Center (WVRHC), the Libraries Depository and the Modern Congressional and Political Papers Collection. She will also have lunch with President E. Gordon Gee and host a roundtable with students to discuss her unique career path, her success as the first woman appointed to lead NARA and the National Archives’ work.
“Several members of my family are proud WVU graduates, so visiting Morgantown is very special to me. Engaging with the academic community reinforces the crucial role that preserving historical records plays in upholding our democracy and understanding our past,” said Dr. Shogan. “It is through records that we ensure our history is accurately represented and accessible for future generations. At the National Archives, we ensure our government records are available for all Americans. It’s great to see programs like WVU Libraries doing that for our cultural heritage. Go Mountaineers!”
Dr. Shogan is the 11th Archivist of the United States. She was sworn in on May 17, 2023, and is the first woman appointed to lead NARA. A noted author and political scientist, Dr. Shogan is deeply committed to civic education and public engagement, and she has made it a priority to expand the reach of National Archives to a wider audience.
For more information about WVU Libraries, the Archivist’s visit or to register for the public events, please visit library.wvu.edu.
-WVU Libraries-
MEDIA CONTACT: Ellis Willard
Director of Public Relations & Events
WVU Libraries
304-293-0306; ellis.willard@mail.wvu.edu