How Dana Williams, and Judith Jamison, Inspired an Enhanced Environment at SIUE

On November 18, 2024, I had the honor of leading a talk-back conversation with scholar and Howard University graduate school dean Dana Williams at the National Museum of African American History & Culture.  The talk-back session followed Williams's remarks about Toni Morrison's Editorial Legacy. For her presentation, Williams infused images of dancer and choreographer Judith Jamison, who had passed away on November 9. 

These images of Jamison, projected in vivid, larger-than-life scale on the big screen, were stunning.

I was inspired, and I began thinking about ways to give students at SIUE a similar experience.

As soon as I returned to campus, I drafted a short proposal for library officials, highlighting the importance of “enhanced environments” and the role of the Eugene B. Redmond Reading Room. In particular, I requested a larger, higher-quality screen for viewing and improved speakers for audio.

Somehow, it worked. The library dean and associate dean were supportive, and now one of the rooms where I host exhibits and presentations has received significant tech upgrades. Williams, and those unforgettable images of Judith Jamison, had sparked a transformation.

Related:

• EBR Collection & EBR Learning Center