By Hazel Scott/ASU
At the heart of Alabama State University's campus lies the Levi Watkins Learning Center (LWLC), a place rich with history and culture. This important center has received exciting news: it has been awarded a $99,000 grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). This funding is part of a special program supporting Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and African American museums, aimed at preserving their invaluable collections.
“ASU is one of eight Historically Black Colleges and Universities to receive funding from its Museum Grants for African American History and Culture (AAHC) program,” noted Dr. Janice Franklin, dean of the Levi Watkins Learning Center.
The grant will help the LWLC prepare for emergencies that could threaten its archives. Leading this effort is Raegan C. Stearns, the University’s dedicated archivist and principal investigator for the proposal titled “Disaster Planning in the Alabama State University Archives.” The grant will help LWLC update its disaster response initiative, create emergency kits, and train staff to save materials after any unexpected events, such as floods and fires.
Franklin noted that the staff recognizes the fragility of the collections, which include documents and artifacts that preserve African American history.
“They worked carefully, rehearsing emergency procedures, packing response kits, and learning how to salvage damaged materials. This preparation not only protected the collections but also inspired confidence in the LWLC’s future,” added Franklin.
Franklin expressed deep gratitude for receiving the grant, stating, “This award allows us to safeguard our diverse and valuable collections with expert training and planning. We’re proud of Ms. Stearns’s leadership in securing this vital support. With the grant and the team’s efforts, the Alabama State University archives are now better equipped to preserve history for future generations.”