The Stevenson Public History Program has continued its news-making school year by having four of its majors honored by Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake of Baltimore. The four PHIST majors previously engaged in a research project supporting the City of Baltimore and were recognized during a meeting with the mayor at City Hall on March 26th.
As part of the ceremony, PHIST seniors Lindsay McCrea, Tori Woodard, Dan Scotten, and Brett Trace received certificates in recognition of their “hard work and dedication” and commitment to communication and history.
The opportunity to be recognized by the Mayor is a special event and called for some special measures. Forsaking their standard sense of classroom fashion, Lindsay, Tori, and Dan got dressed up for the event. Even Dr. Johnston left his khaki pants and short sleeved shirt behind as he donned a suit. Ushered into the Mayor’s conference room, the Stevenson delegation was introduced and personally thanked by the Mayor.
The students then had an opportunity to take approximately 25 minutes to brief the Mayor on the research project undertaken on the Mayor’s behalf in response to a query from France in September 2013. After the event, the Stevenson team was treated to dinner by Dr. Johnston at the restaurant Crepe du Jour in Mount Washington.
This event helped illustrate the Stevenson Public History Program’s commitment to engaging in history outside of the classroom. By engaging in internships and volunteer opportunities in support of the community, students gain experience that cannot be acquired in the classroom. In addition, students receive recognition for their hard work and commendations for their help.
These experiences become the backbone of the interviews each will undergo upon graduation as they apply to graduate schools or to employers. In this case, Stevenson students created a historical narrative that had not existed before their efforts brought it about. They literally created history and a city thanked them for their efforts.