SHA and ACUA 2019 Candidates Biographic Statements

• PRESIDENT
• SECRETARY
• BOARD OF DIRECTORS
• NOMINATIONS AND ELECTIONS COMMITTEE
• ACUA COMMITTEE

PRESIDENT

Julie Schablitsky

Present Position: Chief Archaeologist and Cultural Resources Section Chief, Maryland Department of Transportation; Adjunct Assistant Professor, University of Maryland-College Park; Research Affiliate, University of Oregon

Education: Ph.D., Urban Studies, with specialization in historical archaeology, Portland State University, Oregon; M.A., Anthropology, Oregon State University; B.A., Anthropology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis

Professional Service to SHA and Other Societies:
SHA: Program Co-Chair, Washington D.C. Conference, 2016; Book Reviews Editor, 2015–2019; Board Member, 2013–2016; Collections and Curation Committee Board Liaison, 2013–2016; Co-Chair, Baltimore, Maryland Conference, 2012

Research Interests: African American diaspora; genetic archaeology (DNA and artifacts); cemetery preservation; evolution of transportation landscapes; War of 1812 (terrestrial and maritime)

Biographical Statement:
 As the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) Cultural Resources Section Chief, I direct over one dozen archaeologists and architectural historians in the management and preservation of archaeological sites, significant buildings, and important structures across the state. While at MDOT, I created a public outreach archaeology program that partners with county and local governments to study local historic sites. These projects often incorporate students from the University of Maryland, providing them with valuable work experience and connections that will facilitate their future employment in archaeology. 

As a highway archaeologist I look at the ways transportation systems evolve over time, and how people and places responded to changes along these corridors. Over the last decade, my research and publications have focused upon African American sites (e.g. plantations, urban life, and cemeteries) and how enslaved and free communities lived in the Chesapeake. My relationships with local communities recently inspired me to link Belvoir’s African American descendants to their ancestors. The recovery of human DNA from artifacts such as tobacco pipe stems is now inspiring others to use this same application to address questions of ancestry on their sites.

Under my affiliation with the University of Oregon, I have researched the Donner Party of California, as well as the American Revolutionary Naval Captain John Paul Jones’ birthplace and the late medieval Amisfield Tower in southern Scotland. The chance to lead archaeological projects in Scotland demonstrated to me the importance of collaboration with our colleagues outside of North America, and how different perspectives can enrich our interpretations of people and material culture.  

In addition to my professional positions, I have also been an active participant in SHA. As a member for over 20 years, I have led and assisted conference planning (2012 and 2016), and currently serve as the society’s book reviews editor. Perhaps one my most important roles was serving as a board member between 2013 and 2016.

Given the qualifications and experience outlined in your biographical statement, what do you believe you can contribute to SHA if elected?

I have worked in the field of archaeology for over 30 years, and have been employed in federal and state governments, private consulting firms, and universities. These varied perspectives have provided me opportunities to appreciate a range of concerns across our discipline. As such, I closely follow proposed changes to our cultural resource laws, as well as the ethical issues faced by underwater archaeologists.
 
As MDOT’s Cultural Resources Section Chief, I have not only advocated for the preservation and public appreciation of archaeology and architectural history, but I have worked to bring awareness and respect for historic sites to agency administrators and political figures. My position has provided me with leadership experiences that foster collaborative approaches to difficult problems, despite differing opinions. My ability to facilitate discussions and effectively implement agreed upon plans would be a positive contribution to SHA. 

I have attended over 20 SHA conferences and am deeply committed to the organization, the field of archaeology, and to my colleagues. While serving as a conference co-chair and program chair, I gained important experiences and developed close relationships with the SHA business office and board members. My time serving as the book reviews editor has also prepared me for such a leadership position. I understand how SHA operates and recognize the significant strides it has made towards improving publications, maintaining a political presence in D.C., and finding various ways to benefit the membership.
 
If elected to serve SHA, what priorities would you emphasize?
 
Over the past decade, I have closely followed the challenges faced not only by SHA, but other anthropological societies. One of our most significant threats continues to be aimed at our federal cultural resource laws. It is imperative that we continue to be proactive in lobbying for the legal framework that protects archaeological resources. Furthermore, we need to be vigilant as rules to our existing legislation are proposed that limit the ability of State Historic Preservation Offices and Federally Recognized Tribes to be successful in their established roles.
 
If elected, one of my first priorities will be to ensure our members are protected at all SHA sponsored events and conferences. A recent situation at the Society for American Archaeology conference illuminated the need for additional safe guards. In light of this, it would be beneficial to review our sexual harassment and discrimination policy to ensure any potential threats to members’ safety and well-being are anticipated in advance. As a society, we should continue to prioritize a safe and nurturing environment that fosters learning and mentoring for all members.

I would also like to concentrate on the expansion and diversification of our society through membership growth. The continued dedication of the board, and passion of our committees has resulted in a stable membership. I feel strongly about maintaining this growth, but also increasing the number of international archaeologists in our society. One proven avenue for growth in membership has been hosting conferences outside of North America. In addition, I would like to collaborate with other societies and ACUA to identify new avenues to increase and diversify our membership.

Finally, it is very important to maintain the synergy and support of programs implemented by past presidents, board members, and committees. The practice of archaeology has complicated issues, such as the curation of collections, that require multi-year management strategies. As such, it is imperative we continue to follow and lend support to our colleagues tackling these problems. It is also essential to build upon the programs of previous leaders who produced legislation in areas such as public outreach and community empowerment. When initiatives, like the proposed African American Burial Grounds Network Act, gain momentum, we must ensure they are successful and continue to be built upon.  

Richard Veit

Present Position: Professor of Anthropology and Associate Dean, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Monmouth University

Education: Ph.D., Anthropology with a specialization in historical archaeology, University of Pennsylvania, 1997; M.A., Anthropology with a specialization in historical archaeology, The College of William and Mary, 1991; B.A. Summa Cum Laude, Anthropology, Minor in History, Drew University 1990

Professional Service to SHA and Other Societies:

• SHA: Member, Board of Directors, 2011–2014, Member, Archives and History Committee, 1999–present; Chair, Archives and History Committee, 2006–2012; Member, Elections and Nominations Committee, 2002; Memorials Editor, 2008–2012, Book Reviews Editor, 2012–2015 (as member of Editorial Advisory Board)
• Council for Northeast Historical Archaeology: Member, Executive Board, 2002–2015 and 2019; Member, Elections Committee, 2003, 2008, and 2009; Co-Organizer (with Richard Hunter), Trenton Conference, 2005; Co-Organizer (with Ed Morin), Long Branch Conference, 2014      
• Middle Atlantic Archaeological Conference: President Elect, 2013, President, 2014–2016
• New Jersey Historical Commission (Gubernatorial Appointment): Chair, Programs and Publications Committee, 2012–present
• Archaeological Society of New Jersey: Bulletin Editor, 2017–2019; President, 2007–2011; First Vice President-Education, 2004–2006; Recording Secretary, 2012–2914; Treasurer, 1998–2003; Executive Board Member, 1994–1997
• Association for Gravestone Studies: Member, Editorial Board, 2009–present; Conference Co-Chair (with Mark Nonestied), 1998 and 2012

Research Interests: historical archaeology; gravemarkers; monuments and commemoration; military sites archaeology; historic artifact analysis; vernacular architecture
 
Biographical Statement:  
I am an anthropological archaeologist with a focus on North American historical archaeology. My work as a historical archaeologist strives to give voice to individuals who have been silenced by history: minorities, women, industrial workers, soldiers, and other everyday people. Currently, I serve as Professor of Anthropology and Associate Dean of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences at Monmouth University. I teach undergraduate and graduate courses on historical archaeology, mentor students, and direct an annual field school. My students and I have investigated a variety of sites including Edison’s Menlo Park Laboratory, Sandy Hook Lighthouse, Joseph Bonaparte’s Point Breeze estate, and Morristown National Historical Park. I have also led fieldwork projects in Jamaica, Puerto Rico, and India.
  
Before coming to Monmouth, I spent a decade working for a variety of cultural resource management firms. I have experienced many different aspects of the archaeological profession, working at a variety of levels from field technician to project manager. I continue to consult as a historical archaeologist, with a focus on cemetery preservation projects.

My interests are eclectic, and my publications reflect that eclecticism. I have written seven scholarly books. They include Digging New Jersey’s Past (2002), The Historical Archaeology of the Delaware Valley (w. David Orr, 2014), The Archaeology of American Cemeteries and Gravemarkers (w. Sherene Baugher 2014), and Archaeologies of African-American Life in the Upper Mid-Atlantic (w. Michael Gall 2017). I find historical archaeology to be a compelling way to learn about the past and a source of inspiration for a better future.

My current projects include a book about the archaeology of American religion with Sherene Baugher, and archaeological investigations of Revolutionary war camps at Morristown National Historical Park. I also have a research project at Orange Valley Plantation in Jamaica, examining health and medical practices among enslaved people.
 
Given the qualifications and experience outlined in your biographical statement, what do you believe you can contribute to SHA if elected?
 
I believe that my hybrid academic-cultural resource management background makes me a superior candidate for this position. Currently, my primary employment is as a university faculty member. However, I have also had the opportunity to work at many different levels in cultural resource management from field technician to project manager. As a faculty member, I have built undergraduate programs, and founded a successful MA program in Anthropology. I have been extensively involved in faculty governance and enjoy working with colleagues to build programs and organizations.

While I was a student, my mentors encouraged me to join archaeological organizations. This was sound advice as it helped me learn the craft of historical archaeology and let me build a network of colleagues whose advice has proven invaluable over the course of my career. I actively participate in a variety of archaeological organizations, including the Archaeological Society of New Jersey, Middle Atlantic Archaeological Conference, Council for Northeast Historical Archaeology, and the Society for Historical Archaeology. In 1991 I attended my first SHA conference in Kingston, Jamaica. The experience was powerful, and I felt that I had found a scholarly community that I wanted to be part of. Subsequently, I had the opportunity to serve on several SHA committees, including the society’s board, the Editorial Board, and the history committee. I saw how a dedicated cadre of volunteers working with a gifted professional executive director, can run a top-tier organization.
 
I have organized major regional conferences and am a conference co-chair for the 2022 Philadelphia SHA conference. As a Department Chair and an Associate Dean, I have developed strong leadership skills and a clear vision, while also being flexible and responsive. 

As President of the SHA, I would focus on growing the society, while maintaining its fiscal health and its intellectual breadth, and provide organized, informed, and level-headed leadership. I have seen what makes organizations function well and at the same time, I understand the challenges our professional societies face. If elected, I would be a tenacious advocate for the value of historical archaeology in these trying and unsettled times.

If elected to serve SHA, what priorities would you emphasize?
  
The Society for Historical Archaeology has been critical to my career as an archaeologist and I want to work to maintain its strength well into the future so that it can benefit future generations of archaeologists. The Society has tremendous strengths: a high-quality peer-reviewed journal that remains readable and engaging, a copiously-illustrated full-color newsletter, an outstanding annual conference that draws large numbers of attendees—despite the vicissitudes of January weather, strong management, and an energetic pool of volunteers. On one level, all is well. However, we also face significant challenges and I am energized about the possibility of addressing those challenges. These challenges come in many different forms and from many different directions. First and foremost, we need to reverse the slow decline in our membership. At the same time, we should look for ways to reduce costs where possible and develop additional revenue streams so that students and young professionals can afford to participate in the SHA. We should also look for ways to add value to membership through workshops and online resources. It is also important that we envision historical archaeology as a big tent, capable of holding many different perspectives and research interests. At the same time, we need to make sure that the Society for Historical Archaeology is a welcoming and safe space for all archaeologists.
 
We also need to be vigilant defenders of the legislation that underpins so much archaeological research. Finally, we need to work to spread the good news of historical archaeology. The archaeology that we do is the archaeology of us. It is the archaeology of the modern world, the world we live in. The work we do is directly relevant to the issues that shape our society: immigration, consumerism, capitalism, social justice. Historical archaeology could not be more relevant. We need to do a better job of sharing the results of the work we do, not just with our colleagues and peers, but with the general public. We need to build an organization that reflects the diversity of modern America and welcomes diverse perspectives.

 

SECRETARY

Amanda M. Evans

Present Position: Principal Investigator / Marine Archaeologist, Coastal Environments, Inc.

Education: Ph.D., Louisiana State University, 2013; M.A., Florida State University, 2005; B.A., Indiana University, 1998

Professional Service to SHA and Other Societies:

• SHA: Member, Board of Directors, 2014–2017; Chair, UNESCO Committee, 2013–present; Secretary, UNESCO Committee, 2007–2012
• Advisory Council on Underwater Archaeology: Member, Board of Directors and Secretary, 2008–2011, 2012–2015; Individual Associate Member, 2016–present; Graduate Student Associate Member, 2005–2007
• Register of Professional Archaeologists: Member, Board of Directors, 2009–2011, 2012–2014
• Louisiana Archaeological Society: Vice President, 2019–present

Biographical Statement:  
I currently serve as a Principal Investigator / Marine Archaeologist for Coastal Environments, Inc., conducting underwater archaeological surveys and investigations in support of cultural resource management. My research specialization centers on the investigation of submerged sites, including shipwrecks but especially submerged pre-contact archaeology and paleolandscapes, through the application of geophysics, remote sensing, and geotechnical testing. Recent publications include Prehistoric Archaeology on the Continental Shelf: A Global Review (edited by A. M. Evans, J. C. Flatman, and N. C. Flemming), The Archaeology of Vernacular Watercraft (edited by A. M. Evans), contributed chapters in Site Formation Processes of Submerged Shipwrecks (edited by M. E. Keith), Between the Devil and the Deep: Meeting Challenges in the Public Interpretation of Maritime Cultural Heritage (edited by D. Scott-Ireton), The Archaeology of Maritime Landscapes (edited by B. Ford), and coauthored articles in Conservation and Management of Archaeological Sites, Palynology, and Journal of Maritime Archaeology.
 
Given the qualifications and experience outlined in your biographical statement, what do you believe you can contribute to SHA if elected?
 
If elected to serve as Secretary I will bring previous experience serving in a similar capacity for both the Advisory Council on Underwater Archaeology and the SHA UNESCO Committee. I understand that clear and concise minutes are important to the continuation and successful execution of the Society’s business and serve as the institutional memory of the organization. It will be my responsibility to record the business of the board and committees, including motions, votes, and action items, to provide the membership a clear and transparent accounting of their Society. I also will be responsible for requesting and implementing corrections and clarifications.

As an Officer of the Board, I will benefit from my past experience not only with the SHA but on other Boards that have faced common issues such as member growth and retention, budget requests and reserves, and review and revision of strategic goals and objectives.

If elected to serve SHA, what priorities would you emphasize?

As the Secretary is a member of the Board of Directors, I would like to emphasize the Society’s efforts to diversify our membership. It is essential that the SHA embrace the various publics interested in historical archaeology, and actively promote historical archaeology and its relevance to the modern world. We need more and different voices within the profession, and within our society. This diversification goes hand in hand with making sure that the Society continues its work towards identifying and confronting harassment and discrimination in our profession. I would also like to prioritize the Society’s strong commitment to the ethical practice of archaeology, especially as we face continued challenges to existing legislation and funding.

Sarah E. Miller

Present Position: Director, Northeast and East Central Regions, Florida Public Archaeology Network, St. Augustine, Florida

Education: M.A., Anthropology, East Carolina University, 2001; B.A., History, Secondary Education, Cornell College, 1995

Professional Service to SHA and Other Societies:

• SHA: Member, Board of Directors 2016–2019; Chair, Heritage at Risk Committee 2017–present; Chair, Public Education and Interpretation Committee 2011–2016; Member, Nominations and Election Committee, 2013 and 2019; Popular Chair, Amelia Island Conference Committee, 2010
• Society for American Archaeology (SAA): Chair, Ethics Revision Task Force II, 2018–present; Public Education Committee, 2018–present; Chair, Local Advisory Committee, 2016 Annual Meeting
• Southeastern Archaeological Conference (SEAC): Member, Public Outreach Grant Committee 2013–present
• Center for Archaeological Synthesis: Member, Board of Directors
• Heritage Emergency National Task Force, 2018–present: SHA Representative, 2018–present
• Project Archaeology: Member, Leadership Team 2012–2018 and State Coordinator for Florida 2006–present
• Journal of Archaeology Education: Member, Editorial Board, 2017–present

Research Interests: heritage education; North American historical archaeology; public archaeology; cemetery preservation; advocacy; stewardship; climate change/heritage at risk

Biographical Statement:
It’s an honor to be nominated for Secretary of SHA. Currently I serve as Regional Director for both the Northeast and East Central Regions of the Florida Public Archaeology Network (FPAN), recipient of the 2015 Daniel G. Roberts Award for Excellence in Public Historical Archaeology by SHA. I supervise other professional archaeologists as we work together to serve the needs of 5 million residents and visitors over a 15 county region spanning Jacksonville, St. Augustine, Orlando, Canaveral, all the way down to Lake Okeechobee. As part of my work for FPAN I developed training programs for professionals and non-professionals in heritage education, archaeology advocacy, cemetery preservation through the Cemetery Resource Protection Training (CRPT) program, and understanding the impacts of climate change on cultural resources through the Heritage Monitoring Scout (HMS Florida) program. I received my Master’s degree in Anthropology from East Carolina University in 2001 after developing archaeology education programs at Tryon Palace in New Bern under the supervision of Charles Ewen and Patricia Samford. Upon graduation from ECU, I supervised lab and field projects for the Kentucky Archaeological Survey, including excavations at the Henry Clay Estate under Principal Investigator Kim McBride, excavation and artifact analysis of historic cemeteries around the state, and a landscape study tracing the Catholic diaspora from Maryland to Kentucky. While at Kentucky I also served as a reviewer for compliance projects at the Kentucky Heritage Council (SHPO).
 
Given the qualifications and experience outlined in your biographical statement, what do you believe you can contribute to SHA if elected?
  
If elected I would work to expand communication to membership throughout the year, as well as continue networking with national and international partners on behalf of SHA. Communication to membership throughout the year and on a variety of platforms helps to build cohesion of our community from January to January. We also need to continue to increase communication to the public about the importance of historical archaeology and promote visibility of each other’s projects so the public—including elected officials—are aware of the benefits of historical archaeology. Communication in different forms extended from the Heritage at Risk Committee this past year where as Chair I submitted comments on Vol 2. Fourth National Climate Assessment, initiated the motion for SHA to join the Global Climate Action Summit and Climate Heritage Network, and developed partnerships with international heritage at risk organizations at the EAAs. I hope to continue working closely with the board on these efforts as Secretary and hope to draw in new international members as the Lisbon 2021 conference approaches.

Advocacy is another area I feel I can continue to contribute to SHA. During my time on the Board I took advantage of every opportunity to work with Cultural Heritage Partners staff and the Coalition for American Heritage by making the rounds on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. The Senators, Representatives, and staff I met with acknowledged the importance of American heritage but needed much more information on sites in their districts, the benefits of archaeology in their own state, and information related to legislation that would come before them in committee. The African-American Burial bill came about during my time on the board and I worked as part of the committee to review material, provide local examples and resources for abandoned African-American cemeteries, and asked my elected officials to support the draft legislation. I brought what I learned back to Florida where FPAN participates in an annual archaeology day at the Capitol and contributed text for advocacy information available online. As Secretary I would continue to engage with elected officials at every level to advocate for cultural resources.
 
If elected to serve SHA, what priorities would you emphasize?
  
If elected to serve as secretary, I would continue to bring issues of professional development, multidisciplinary partnership, and public outreach to the forefront of board conversations. We need access to workshops and webinars to further develop our professional skills. We need to work with other organizations and across committees to integrate our combined knowledge to tackle greater issues. And we need to continue to communicate with the public about the benefits of archaeology in their communities as well as worldwide.

Prior to cycling off the SHA Board I was appointed to serve as SHA representative to the Heritage Emergency National Task Force (HENTF), sponsored by FEMA and the Smithsonian, and the SHA representative on the board for the Coalition of Archaeological Synthesis (CfAS) for which I now serve as secretary. I’m proud to serve SHA in these two capacities, as both speak to archaeologists’ ability to draw upon data and methods to help address some of the largest global threats today, and hope to continue serving in a similar vein as Secretary for SHA.

 

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Jodi A. Barnes

Present Position: Research Associate Professor and Station Archeologist, University of Arkansas, Arkansas Archeological Survey

Education: Ph.D., Anthropology, American University, Washington, DC, 2008; Graduate Certificate, Women’s Studies, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 2002; B.A., Anthropology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 1999

Professional Service to SHA and Other Societies:

• SHA: Associate Editor, Historical Archaeology, 2018–present; Member, Gender and Minority Affairs Committee, 2010–present; Chair, Gender and Minority Affairs Committee, 2010–2012; Member, Academic and Professional Training Committee, 2008–present; Member, Student Sub-Committee of the Academic and Professional Training Committee, 2007–2008
• Southeastern Archaeological Conference: Member, Public Outreach Committee, 2018–present
• Preserve Arkansas: Vice President of Advocacy, 2019; Past-President and Secretary, 2018; President, 2017; President Elect, 2016; Vice President of Education, 2015; Member, Board of Directors, 2014–present
• Arkansas Archeological Society: Program Chair, Tunican Chapter of the Arkansas Archeological Society, 2013–present; Poster Design, Archeology Month, 2016; Member, Annual Meeting Planning Committee, 2016
• Drew County Museum Commission: Member, Board of Advisors, 2015–present; Assistant Journal Editor, Drew County Historical Journal, 2016–2017
• Archaeological Society of South Carolina: Journal Editor, South Carolina Antiquities, 2009–2013

Research Interests: archaeology of the African diaspora; World War II Home Front heritage; public archaeology; contemporary archaeology; feminist theory; intersectionality; antiracism; foodways; health

Biographical Statement:
I am an Associate Research Professor and Station Archeologist with the University of Arkansas’ Arkansas Archeological Survey. My position combines teaching, research, public outreach, and heritage management. My research focuses on the archaeologies of health and foodways at 19th century Hollywood Plantation and the material life of Camp Monticello, a World War II Italian prisoner of war camp. After completing a Post-Doctoral Fellowship at the University of South Carolina, I worked as the Staff Archaeologist for the South Carolina State Historic Preservation Office, where I learned about state and federal legislation, the whys and hows of CRM, and how to make archaeological research relevant to the public. I also conducted research in Argentina, Belize, and Virginia, where I wrote my dissertation on an African American community in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

I am the editor of The Materiality of Freedom (2011) and co-editor of Managing Cultural Resources: Global Context, National Programs, Local Actions (2008). I publish in peer reviewed as well as local journals to show archaeology’s relevance to the various publics that I work with. For example, I recently edited a thematic issue of Historical Archaeology, Intimate Archaeologies of World War II (2018) and in an upcoming issue of the Arkansas Archeological Society’s newsletter, Field Notes, I co-authored an article about working with timber companies to protect sites on their property.
 
I strive to engage responsibly and creatively with academic and nonacademic communities to demonstrate the roles archaeology can play in addressing contemporary issues. I partner with Preserve Arkansas, a non-profit committed to building stronger communities through historic preservation, to produce the Behind the Big House program. In its fourth year, it explores slave dwellings (and foodways), interprets the experiences of the enslaved people who inhabited them, and draws attention to race relations in Arkansas’ past and present.

Given the qualifications and experience outlined in your biographical statement, what do you believe you can contribute to SHA if elected?
 
I joined the SHA Student Sub-Committee of the Academic and Professional Training Committee (APTC) in 2007 and I have been an active member of APTC since. I was the Chair of the Gender and Minority Affairs Committee from 2010–2012, where I spearheaded the antiracism training, mentorship, and field school and travel fellowships. I continue to be an active member, participating in antiracism and sexual harassment trainings and co-organizing panels and symposiums that identify and challenge systems of oppression to create equity in our discipline. If elected, I bring this knowledge and experience to the Board. I also contribute my experience organizing conferences and other events such as the 2008 post-doctoral fellows conference, The Archaeology of the Recent African American Past, at the University of South Carolina and the Fifth World Archaeological Conference in Washington, DC.

The SHA has become a leader in working towards institutional change through antiracism and sexual harassment workshops, advocating for historic preservation, and making archaeology relevant to the public. From working with the Coalition for American Heritage to pass the African American Burial Grounds Network bill to advocating for the Arkansas Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit Act, I bring experience influencing public policy about archaeology and historic preservation.
 
As the President of a state-wide historic preservation non-profit, an Associate Editor of Historical Archaeology, and an active member of two SHA committees, I understand the challenges of running voluntary organizations and I have the experience to be a proactive SHA Board member. I have knowledge of committee structure and Board operations and I have learned to form creative solutions, manage with few resources, create cost-savvy budgets and attain funding, and work with diverse publics and various local, state, and federal agencies. My work on the GMAC and APTC committees demonstrates my commitment to SHA and advocacy for preservation, anti-racism, and gender equity. I want to help grow SHA while preserving its community vibe, continuing to communicate what we do to the public in new and innovative ways, advocating for archaeological preservation and education, and seeking progressive change within our discipline.

If elected to serve SHA, what priorities would you emphasize?
  
It would be an honor to serve on the SHA Board, and if elected, I would help lead the continuing efforts of SHA to operate as an organization with a conscience. I will strive towards creating an inclusive community that maintains member benefits, pinpoints the needs of members, and manages a budget that sustains affordable dues. I will continue to work with the GMAC and APTC committees and build stronger bridges between all of the committees to strengthen their working relationships. I would advocate for the anti-racist workshops and other programs that address systems of oppression and encourage underrepresented people to join our organization. With threats to historic preservation legislation, sites, and university programs, it is important for SHA to take a stand to ensure the future of the discipline. I would work with the Board to identify issues of concern to membership and develop methods for members to advocate for these issues and resources. I recognize that the SHA can only attract and keep members if our dues are affordable and our programs meet your needs. I am willing to vocalize support or dissent on matters of concern to our discipline, our members, our community partners, and the people of the past for whom we do this work.

Amy Anne Borgens

Present Position: State Marine Archeologist, Archeology Division, Texas Historical Commission

Education: B.A., Fine Arts, Purdue University; M.A., Nautical Archeology Program, Texas A&M University; Doctoral Candidate, Texas State University

Professional Service to SHA and Other Societies:

• SHA: Co-Chair, SHA Conference, Fort Worth, 2017; Participant, SHA’s public archeology conference forums in 2011, 2017, and 2018
• Council for Texas Archeologists: Member, Standards and Guidelines Committee, 2017–present
• Texas Navy Association: Member, Board of Directors, 2016–2017; Chair, History Committee, 2016–2017, 2019–present

Research Interests: coastal archaeology; Gulf of Mexico maritime history and underwater archeology; Texas underwater archeology; climate change impacts to Texas coastal sites; historic firearms from underwater archeological contexts; artifact photography and illustration

Biographical Statement:
Amy Borgens was appointed State Marine Archeologist at the Texas Historical Commission in June 2010. As the State Marine Archeologist, Amy is responsible for the preservation, protection, and investigation of shipwrecks and other submerged sites in all state-owned waters. Prior to her employment at the Texas Historical Commission, she worked in cultural resource management (CRM) on both terrestrial and underwater archeological projects. Amy has worked in the field of Texas maritime archeology since 1997 and has been associated with several notable Texas shipwreck projects, including La Belle and USS Westfield. In addition, Amy assisted in the excavation of Oklahoma’s only known shipwreck site, Heroine (1838), and participated in the remotely-operated vehicle investigations of early 19th-century shipwrecks at depths exceeding 4,000 feet off the coast of Louisiana (the Mardi Gras and Monterrey Shipwreck Projects). Collectively, Amy has recorded historic shipwrecks dating from the Byzantine Period to the mid-20th century and has worked on projects in Louisiana, Oklahoma, Texas, Canada, Turkey, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Falkland Islands.
 
Her specializations include early nineteenth-century Gulf of Mexico maritime history and the study of historic small arms artifact assemblages. Her experience in the field of archeology includes wreck excavation and documentation, conservation, artifact photography, and illustration. Amy has published more than 20 articles in peer-review journals and industry newsletters and authored/co-authored 30 CRM reports. She was an author and co-editor on the publication La Belle: The Archeology of a 17th Century Ship of New World Colonization, recipient of the 2017 Keith Muckelroy Award.

Given the qualifications and experience outlined in your biographical statement, what do you believe you can contribute to SHA if elected?
 
My experience in underwater archeology encompasses volunteer work, academia, cultural resources management, and regulatory policy administration. In addition, I have worked with avocational archeologists (the THC’s Texas Archeological Stewardship Network and regional archeological associations), currently manage student interns, and collaborate with staff at Texas coastal/maritime museums. I highly value the role of public outreach within our field and pursue opportunities to share these stories of discovery, history, and archeology in conference proceedings, local/regional public outreach events, and as a university guest lecturer constituting upwards of a dozen talks a year. These experiences, I believe, would benefit the SHA as I have worked in a variety of archeological environments interfacing academic investigations, community service, policy creation/administration, volunteer and academic collaborations, and educational/public outreach.
 
Though an underwater archeologist by training, I have worked on both underwater and land archeological investigations. The underwater investigations I have participated in include high-visibility dive projects and deep-sea exploration with much of my work occurring in black-water environments. I believe these experiences create a broad spectrum understanding of the field of archeology, bridging avocational, academic, public, and regulatory archeology for both land and marine investigations.

I have attended SHA conferences intermittently since Williamsburg (2007) and I assisted with two conferences (Austin 2011 and Fort Worth 2017), serving as conference co-chair for the 50th anniversary conference in 2017. I have been involved in tours, public day forums, served as a session chair, and developed session content. I would welcome sharing any experience in these matters to assist SHA in continuing to host successful conferences.

Other interests include record archiving and digitization, ArcGIS geospatial analysis, artifact conservation and curation, and encouraging refinements in archeological methods and interpretation concerning underwater surveys for historic (especially magnetometers) and prehistoric archeological sites. I would like contribute towards advancing fieldwork, data storage, and other methodologies as we move forward.

If elected to serve SHA, what priorities would you emphasize?
 
Development of underwater guidance for states that do not have designated underwater specialists at the regulatory level. Along with other managers in SHA’s annual Underwater Managers Forum, I have assisted many states with the development of their underwater guidelines since being hired by the Texas Historical Commission in 2010. As one of the first states to develop legislation for the protection of underwater archeological sites (1969), I believe it is important to continue to contribute towards this effort and to promote the integration of underwater resource management at the state level. State funding often does not support the addition of underwater staff but we can work as a network to provide assistance and guidance for such groups in need (possibly) in a more holistic way.

As a frequent manager and collaborator with undergraduate and graduate student interns, I hope to assist the SHA in its efforts to appeal and encourage student participation in the conferences and develop research opportunities to assist in their professional development.

Continue to emphasize the role of public outreach in archeology and improve accessibility of research material in public venues.

As a resident and archeologist from a coastal state, increase awareness of climate change and environmental impacts on archeological sites, especially the effects of rising sea-level and erosion.

Marie-Lorraine Pipes, Ph.D. RPA

Present Position: Zooarchaeologist Consultant and Adjunct Professor, Geneseo College, State University of New York

Education: Ph.D., University at Buffalo, State University of New York; M.A., Hunter College of the City University of New York, 1996; B.A., New York University, 1981

Professional Service to SHA and Other Societies:

• SHA: Member in good standing
• New York Archaeological Council (NYAC): President, Vice-president, and currently Board Member, 2010–2016
• New York State Archaeological Association (NYSAA): Vice-president member in good standing, 2004–2016; President and Vice-president of the Morgan Chapter, 1995–present
• RPA: Member in good standing, 1999–present

Research Interests: food; urban provisioning; gender roles; environmental and ecological change; social justice

Biographical Statement:

I am an archaeologist, working primarily in CRM and teaching as an adjunct professor, and am engaged with state and local organizations. I started in the field working on digs in lower Manhattan, later developing a specialty in Zooarchaeology under the guidance of Tom McGovern at Hunter College. I worked for Louis Berger Associates 1986–1996 with a team of analysts who believed in the importance of material culture studies. In 1996 I started a zooarchaeology consulting business. I have analyzed faunal assemblages from distinct spatial, temporal and cultural contexts including the African Burial Ground Project in NYC, and recently the New Constitution Center in Philadelphia. Once in Upstate New York I joined the New York Archaeological Council (1997) and the New York State Archaeological Association (1995), serving as an officer and board member of both organizations. I created the NYSAA newsletter and its first website later reorganizing it into a portal for both organizations, which not only enhanced communication between both groups, but also allows users to easily find information on NY archaeology in one place. This includes back issues of The Bulletin, the journal of the NYSAA, which I personally scanned, converted and made available on NYArchaeology.org.

Through NYAC I have had many collaborations with colleagues across NYS, creating guidelines for archaeological work. With others, I worked on the Standards for the Collection, Management, and Disposition of Archaeological Collections in the Field, Laboratory, and Repository. Currently, we are planning a meeting between the CRM community, stakeholders, agencies, and SHPO. My interest focuses on improving communication and understanding between communities of practice and the public. Since 2010, my NYSAA chapter and I have run a popular public archaeology program. Lastly, I teach archaeology and anthropology in the State University of New York guiding many students into graduate programs.  

Given the qualifications and experience outlined in your biographical statement, what do you believe you can contribute to SHA if elected?
 
I have been involved with state and local archaeological organizations since 1995. The practice of engagement has enriched my life as a member of the New York Archaeological Council, the New York State Archaeological Association and the Morgan Chapter NYSAA as well as my work as an archaeologist. Collaboration, cooperation, and support are key elements in positive engagement among board members and when working with local communities. My New York State colleagues have taught me a great deal about tolerance and respect. My experiences have prepared me for working productively with others and I would like to continue doing so as member of the SHA Board of Directors.

If elected to serve SHA, what priorities would you emphasize?
  
My work with the New York State Archaeological Association and the New York Archaeological Council has centered around strategies for effective communication and dissemination of knowledge. I would work on preserving information and on developing public outreach programs. My role in the NYSAA and NYAC made it possible to create several avenues for spreading information including a newsletter, joint website, event programming, and most recently the development of a biannual archaeologist video festival. The work that archaeologists do is most often disseminated through conference papers and less often in publication. I would work on ideas that capture conference papers to preserve the vast body of knowledge lost at the end of every conference.
 
I have also been involved for nearly a decade in public outreach programs involving archaeology and interested members of the public. There is nothing more wonderful than seeing someone find an artifact that resonates with them and connects them to the past. Historic archaeology needs to broaden its horizon and include wider communities in the investigation of the past. The concentration of poverty in inner cities limits opportunities for these residents to experience that joy. I would like to explore ways of engaging with these communities, connecting them to their past, by creating relationships between youth programs and local archaeology groups.

Sara Rivers Cofield

Present Position: Curator of Federal Collections, Maryland Archaeological Conservation Laboratory at Jefferson Patterson park and Museum

Education: M.A., Applied Anthropology, University of Maryland, College Park, 2002; B.A., History, Murray State University, 2000

Professional Service to SHA and Other Societies:

• SHA: Chair, Curation and Collections Committee, 2016–present; Member, Nominations Committee, 2016
• Archaeological Collections Consortium: Co-Chair, May 2018–present
• Digital Archaeological Archive of Comparative Slavery (DAACS): Member, Expanding DRC Advisory Committee, 2018–present
• Council of Maryland Archaeology: Member
• Council of Northeast Historical Archaeology: Member
• Society for American Archaeology: Member

Research Interests: material culture studies (especially metal and small finds); curation and collections management; ritual and magic; personal adornment

Biographical Statement:  
Since 2004 I have been working as the curator and collections manager for Federally-owned collections recovered in Maryland. In this role I work to raise professional and public awareness of the value of collections-based archaeology. In order to show that collections are still relevant and valuable for research long after the excavations are over, I regularly draw from the MAC Lab’s estimated 8.5 million artifacts to present new interpretations. Writing articles, Instagram posts, and webpages such as sections of Diagnostic Artifacts in Maryland is my way of communicating the usefulness of collections without lecturing about the curation crisis. SHA and other professional organizations must be integral to the effort, as they represent the interface between curators, collections managers, academia, and the CRM world.

At the MAC Lab I am in a position where I can make collections accessible and ensure that they are properly cared for and conserved if needed, but I know most repositories struggle with these goals. Since 2016 I have been working to help with collections on a broader scale by chairing the SHA Curation and Collections Management Committee (CCC) and serving on the Archaeological Collections Consortium (ACC), which is a group that brings together members of SHA, SAA, and ACRA to work on collections concerns in archaeology. With these groups I have listened to colleagues identify common challenges such as underfunding of repositories, lack of consensus in cataloging, the need for guidance on sampling, orphaned collections, and the need to promote collections-based research. I am interested in taking these topics on. Even though the challenges can seem unsurmountable, it is work that needs to be done.
 
Given the qualifications and experience outlined in your biographical statement, what do you believe you can contribute to SHA if elected?

In my day job I routinely work with many different stakeholders such as state government, federal agencies, and the CRM firms and academic programs generating collections in Maryland. Through the CCC and ACC I have worked with an equally diverse group of archaeologists and professional organizations with a national and international reach. In addition to working with archaeologists from every corner of the discipline in the present, I spend a lot of time looking back as I use existing collections for new research. As one of the people charged with keeping collections and records in perpetuity, I also have an eye to the future so I can be ready to preserve and protect all of the amazing research products generated by new technologies. I believe the greatest asset I could bring to the leadership of SHA is the long-view perspective that comes from the constant navigation between past research, present practice, and preparation for the future of the discipline.
 
While my years of service to the ACC and CCC have been productive, I recognize that the people drawn to these groups already have the best interests of collections in mind. What is needed is better integration with the people who write budgets and scopes of work, and the field and lab archaeologists generating collections. That means collections-minded archaeologists need to step up into leadership roles where it is possible to listen to different perspectives and work on policies that are feasible, affordable, and of benefit to all in the profession.
 
I bring a working knowledge of the many regulations, laws, policies, and ethics that guide archaeology, but I also understand that all such rules are subject to change. I love my job and care deeply about historical archaeology, so when changes do take place, I want to be a part of the conversation.

If elected to serve SHA, what priorities would you emphasize?
 
Obviously collections are near and dear to me, but the CCC and ACC are where I work to make progress on curation issues. If elected as a member of the SHA Board my priority would be to support all of the Committees in their work, not just my own.
 
As events at the SAA 2019 conference have shown, professional organizations need to be nimble enough to roll with current movements and address whatever concerns come up. Volunteer organizations such as SHA seem to get the most done when a lot of people care about the same thing, whether it is increasing the diversity of the membership, embracing the #metoo movement by updating sexual harassment policies, or uniting against deregulation threats such as proposed changes to the National Historic Preservation Act. I would emphasize the need to embrace the momentum of the moment whenever there is an opportunity to make real progress on any issue of concern to SHA.

 

NOMINATIONS AND ELECTIONS COMMITTEE

Todd M. Ahlman

Present Position: Assistant Professor of Practice, Department of Anthropology, Texas State University; Director, Center for Archaeological Studies, Texas State University

Education: Ph.D. and M.A., University of Tennessee; B.A., University of Nebraska

Professional Service to SHA and Other Societies:

• SHA: Program Chair, Annual Meeting, 2017; Member, Academic and Professional Training Committee, 2017–present
• Plains Anthropological Conference: Chair, Annual Meeting, 2018
• Council of Texas Archeologists: Chair, Public Education Committee, 2018–present; Chair, CRM and Academic Archaeology Committee, 2014–2018
• Southern Texas Archaeological Association: Program Chair, 2015–present; Vice Chair, 2017–2018; Chair, 2019–present

Research Interests: Caribbean military and African Diaspora sites; nineteenth and twentieth century farmsteads; ceramic analysis and exchange; archaeology of colonialism and globalization; public archaeology

Biographical Statement:
Currently I am the Director of the Center for Archaeological Studies (CAS) and Assistant Professor of Practice in the Anthropology department at Texas State University. At CAS I am responsible for obtaining grants and contracts to provide undergraduate and graduate students applied experience in cultural resource management (CRM). CAS has a robust public outreach program that reaches a wide audience of professional archaeologists and the general public across Texas and around the world. Within the Anthropology department at Texas State University, I teach undergraduate historical archaeology and mentor undergraduate and graduate students. For the Texas State University Public History Program, I teach a graduate CRM class aimed at exposing history students to different career options and CRM regulations.

Prior to joining Texas State University in 2014, I spent 20-plus years in the public and private sectors, mostly doing CRM. My experience with the National Park Service, Tennessee Valley Authority, University of Tennessee, University of Montana, The Louis Berger Group, Inc., and Historical Research Associates, Inc. laid a solid foundation to understand the business of CRM, the needs of clients, and the regulatory requirements of CRM. I have spent time in the academic sphere at the University of Tennessee, University of Montana, and Texas State University where I have taught classes and mentored undergraduate and graduate students. I have been able to translate my CRM experience to the classroom and bring my varied experiences to my classes that help prepare students interested in applied anthropological careers.

Given the qualifications and experience outlined in your biographical statement, what do you believe you can contribute to SHA if elected?
 
SHA membership and conference attendance have been vital to my growth as a professional archaeologist and I consistently recommend membership and conference attendance to all archaeologists. Participation in the society is important to ensure we maintain a vibrant, diverse, and inclusive society and that we ensure that historical archaeologists around the world practice ethical methods and interpretations. As I have hit the midpoint of my career, I see the importance of contributing to SHA and helping it continue to grow as a professional society.
 
Most of my career has been spent straddling the private, public, and academic spheres giving me a multidimensional perspective on archaeological and CRM practice and training. I see the need for additional funding and time for archaeological projects as shrinking budgets and continued threats to historic preservation laws restrict our ability to bring about effective heritage management and conservation. In addition, undergraduate and graduate training continues to be affected by rising college tuition and fewer field and laboratory opportunities as many universities are cutting funding to anthropology programs. As a professional society we need strong leadership who will advocate for stronger heritage laws, more funding for archaeological projects and research, and more training opportunities for students.

Working for a Hispanic Serving Institution where gender and ethnic/racial inclusivity are promoted, I feel that I can translate skills learned at Texas State University to the SHA. I already use these skills in recruiting and mentoring a diverse group of students for our NSF funded Research Experiences for Undergraduates program where 80 percent of the students are women and 70 percent are persons of color. These students are the future of SHA and as a member of the Nominations and Elections Committee I would seek to find candidates for the board and leadership that reflect the diversity of these students and our membership as a whole.
 
If elected to serve SHA, what priorities would you emphasize?
 
The SHA Mission Statement and Strategic Plan Goals emphasize the global perspective of modern historical archaeology; expanding membership; a diverse and inclusive membership, leadership, and research subject areas; public outreach; and legislative advocacy. As a member of the Nominations and Elections Committee, I would strive to uphold the mission and goals of the SHA and seek to recruit a diverse and inclusive slate of candidates that represents the Society’s membership. The SHA leadership has consistently included members from the CRM industry and this is one of the reasons that the SHA has been a strong and diverse organization; therefore, I think it is important the CRM industry continues to be represented on our committees and board. If we as organization seek to study and understand a diverse and inclusive past, then it is important that our board and committees represent the past we research. As such, I would seek to recruit and nominate persons of color, women, and disabled persons for leadership positions within our society. As political landscapes change around the world, we also need committees and leaders that will be willing to engage politicians and federal, state/commonwealth/provincial, and local leaders to ensure that heritage resources continue to be protected. I think it is also important that we encourage younger voices and they are given an opportunity to be a part of the SHA leadership whether on committees or as part of the board. Finally, my work in many different spheres (academia and CRM) has given me the opportunity to meet a range of people that have many different skills. I will gladly call on those contacts to help the SHA grow in the twenty-first century.

Lewis Jones

Present Position: Adjunct Professor of Anthropology at Gettysburg College/ Harrisburg Area Community College

Education: M.A., Indiana University Bloomington, IN

Professional Service to SHA and Other Societies:

• SHA: Chair, Gender and Minority Affairs Committee

Research Interests: African Diaspora; consumption and citizenship; Consumption Committee and the Color Line; race, ethnicity and the landscape

Biographical Statement:
Lewis Jones received his B.A. in History with a Minor in Anthropology, and a B.S. in Secondary Education from Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis in 2006. His M.A. in Anthropology was received in 2013 and Lewis is currently ABD in the department of Anthropology at Indiana University in Bloomington Indiana. He currently serves as a Chair of the Gender and Minority Affairs Committee and has been an active member of the committee for the past 5 years working with the Anti-Racism subcommittee. He is a Member of the Society of Black Archaeologists, and the American Anthropological Association. Lewis works with local schools in bringing anthropology and archaeology to local middle school and elementary students. He also has spoken at Harrisburg Area Community college and Indiana University Pennsylvania on Confederate Monuments, Memory, and Historic Preservation. He is currently starting work with the Gettysburg African American Museum on preserving the history of Gettysburg’s African American Community. Lewis is currently an Adjunct Professor at Gettysburg College as well as at Harrisburg Area Community College. 

Given the qualifications and experience outlined in your biographical statement, what do you believe you can contribute to SHA if elected?
 
I have a background in working with and helping others to understand the importance of having open lines of communication. I understand and embrace the concept of allowing others to take agency for their ideas and employing them to better the organization, and I believe that I can use those talents to foster the relationships needed to help make sure that our members are receiving the equitable treatment that is needed to ensure that those both inside and outside the field of archaeology feel that they can have a voice in how we do our work.

If elected to serve SHA, what priorities would you emphasize?
 
If elected to the nominations committee my main priorities would be ensure that the nominations process remains fair and equitable with a focus on looking for members of the SHA who represent the ideals we have for a better future for our organization as well as our profession as we move through the 21st century. I believe that by working for a diverse and equitable SHA we will see our membership flourish and our work as an organization will have the impact for an equitable future that we all desire.

Chelsea Rose

Present Position: Research Archaeologist, Southern Oregon University Laboratory of Anthropology

Education: M.A., Cultural Resources Management, Sonoma State University, 2009; B.A., Anthropology and History, University of Oregon, 2007

Professional Service to SHA and Other Societies:

• Oregon Heritage Commission (governor appointed): Chair, 2016–present
• Oregon Historical Society’s Oregon Historical Quarterly: Member, Editorial Board, 2015–present
• Association of Oregon Archaeologists: Vice President, 2010–2013

Research Interests: Chinese Diaspora Archaeology; public archaeology; community archaeology; heritage tourism; archaeology and the media; STEM, building collaborative partnerships to promote and support archaeological research and heritage
 
Biographical Statement:  
I am a research archaeologist with Southern Oregon University Laboratory of Anthropology where I have spent the last decade researching the settlement and development of the American West. Where possible, I have incorporated students, community members, and public volunteers into archaeological investigations on sites associated with emigrant trails, the Rogue River Indian Wars, pioneer settlements, mining camps, railroad sites, and immigration. Most recently I have been working on a multi-agency collaborative research project named the Oregon Chinese Diaspora Project (OCDP). This project includes partnerships with state and federal agencies, museums, and historical societies and has led to a variety of public history and archaeology events, including Passport in Time (PIT) projects, public lectures, guided history hikes, and open site days. Throughout my career I have worked with a variety of TV, radio, and print media to spotlight archaeology and heritage issues. In order to keep the archaeological process accessible and transparent after the field, I seek out heritage partners and encourage community stewardship of archaeological resources. To this end I have a monthly segment on a public radio station and contribute to a variety of local and regional publications. I have also partnered on the creation of two digital collections, the Jim Rock Historic Can Collection and the Chinese Material Culture Collection, which are designed to serve as a resource for archaeologists and the public. 

Given the qualifications and experience outlined in your biographical statement, what do you believe you can contribute to SHA if elected?
 
If elected to the Nomination and Elections Committee, I would bring a strong background in public and media outreach. Sustained support for cultural heritage, both financial and political, cannot be taken for granted, and it is important that organizations like the SHA take an active role in fostering public awareness and support for the field. In addition to the many collaborative partnerships I have worked on doing public archaeology, my work on the Oregon Heritage Commission has allowed me to participate in finding creative solutions to challenges faced by organizations ranging from large museums to small volunteer-run historical societies. This has included the creation of tool kits aimed at creating and communicating more holistic and inclusive community histories, updating antiquated language that alienates potential stakeholders, and helping to establish heritage programming that appeals to a wider demographic. Much of this work highlights the ways archaeologists can be better allies within their community, which not only adds richness to collaborative projects, but helps to reinforce the important work we do and why the public should continue to support it. 

If elected to serve SHA, what priorities would you emphasize?
 
If elected to the Nomination and Elections Committee I would encourage increased interdisciplinary collaboration both in and outside of academia. As professionals, we need to be more active in challenging antiquated rhetoric and inaccurate presentations of the past, create space for historically marginalized voices, and encourage more inclusive histories. We need to look beyond traditional partnerships in order to continue to push our discipline forward. My Chinese diaspora work has recently taken me to southern China, and this has not only highlighted the value of transnational research, but has also exposed me to a new set of stakeholders and historical knowledge that has made my projects in Oregon undeniably richer. In addition to learning from working with others, the membership can serve as a valuable resource by providing content and expertise to audiences passionate about history. The more involved archaeologists are in sharing the stories of our human past, the more we can influence the narrative and address contemporary social issues. Archaeology has a universal appeal that rises above partisan politics and has the potential to unify disparate populations. I would like to see the SHA take a more active leadership role in this manner in order to facilitate ongoing public support for the discipline, help build stronger communities, and to explore increased avenues for the dissemination of the data that we are gathering about the past.  

Andy Weir, RPA

Present Position: President, Commonwealth Heritage Group, Inc.

Education: M.A., Maritime History, East Carolina University; B.A., Anthropology, Western Michigan University

Professional Service to SHA and Other Societies:

• American Cultural Resources Association (ACRA): Elected Board Member, 2009–2012, 2012–2015; Member, Conference Committee, 2009–present; Chair, Headquarters Oversight Committee, 2015–present; Chair, Revenue Generating Task Force, 2009–2015, Chair, Administrative Challenges Task Force, 2013–2015, Member, Education Committee, 2012–present; Strategic Planning Task Force, 2012; Chair, HQ Oversight Committee, 2016–present
• Leaders in Energy and Preservation (LEAP—coalition of energy companies and historic preservation groups supporting efficient energy exploration and advancing heritage management): Elected Board Member, 2016–present, Treasurer and Member, Executive Committee 2018–present
• The Pathfinder School Board of Trustees: Treasurer, 2018–present; Member, Executive and Finance Committee, 2018–present

Research Interests: integrating public involvement; technology and thoughtful development within the realm of heritage resource management.
 
Biographical Statement:
I have been around archaeology my whole life. Both my dad and my grandfather were archaeologists. My dad started bringing me to SHA conference in my early teens and in the last twenty odd years, I don’t think that I have missed very many. I have been working in the field of archaeology since I was 16 years old and have progressed to owning my own company. One of the driving principles in my life, and one that I try very hard to instill in my kids and all my employees, is that of giving back and contributing to the greater good. One of the best ways to do that in the archaeological world is to get involved with professional organizations, be it presenting papers, sitting on committees, taking a leadership role… My skills lie with organization leadership and strategic planning with an eye to implementing the strategies and I think I could be a real help to the committee.  

Given the qualifications and experience outlined in your biographical statement, what do you believe you can contribute to SHA if elected?
  
Being the owner and President of a successful nationwide cultural heritage firm, I believe I can bring leadership and practical problem-solving abilities to the committee. Also, through my experience sitting on the Board of Directors for other professional organizations, I will bring an understanding of how to leverage the abilities within the committee to effect changes that are aligned with the committee’s vision. One of biggest struggles within my company is finding the right people to hire that align with the skillset and personality vision I have for my employees. I feel I have been very successful in finding the right people for the right jobs. I will bring that ability to the SHA Nominations and Elections Committee. Finally, I bring a passion and a desire to contribute to the SHA.  

If elected to serve SHA, what priorities would you emphasize?
 
I would like to help insure that the SHA Nominations and Elections Committee brings a diverse range of persons into the organization that represents the larger archaeological community. Not only helping to bring diversity of age, gender, and ethnicity, but a diversity of education and employment. Only though diverse representation of our constituents can we fully address the needs of our organization

 

ACUA COMMITTEE

John Arthur Albertson

Present Position: Maritime Archaeologist and Client Representative
 
Education: M.A., Nautical Archaeology
Conservation Certificate, Texas A&M University, 2014; B.A., Classics, Gustavus Adolphus College, 2006
 
Professional Service to SHA and Other Societies:

SHA: Underwater Co-Chair, SHA 2017, Fort Worth, TX; Co-Editor of the SHA 2017 ACUA Underwater Archaeology Proceedings
 
Research Interests: medieval seafaring in the Black Sea; underwater remote sensing and acoustic geophysics; photogrammetry and legacy dataset digital comparison

Biographical Statement:
John Albertson has been working in Underwater Archaeology since his field school excavating the medieval shipwrecks of Novy Svet, Crimea in 2005. After completing his BA in the Classics in 2006, he traveled the world for 4 years accumulating additional underwater excavation experience in Crimea and pertinent linguistic experience, specifically in Turkish, Italian and Russian. After acceptance to the Nautical Archaeology Program at Texas A&M in 2010, he co-directed two seasons of fieldwork at Novy Svet, culminating in his 2014 Thesis “The Juniper Coast: A Survey of the Medieval Shipwrecks of Novy Svet, Ukraine.” In addition, he assisted with the excavation of the Great Ranger in Jamaica, the conservation of La Belle and the USS Westfield at the Conservation Research Laboratory of Texas A&M, and three seasons of fieldwork at the Paleo Indian site of Page Ladson for the Center for the Study of the First Americans. In 2014, he was hired by Geoscience Earth & Marine Services and began his career as a deepwater archaeologist and remote sensing specialist. He presently owns and operates Albertson Offshore, and works all over the world providing archaeological QA/QC services for companies, governments and universities. His personal focus is to promote and facilitate the power of cutting-edge remote sensing for the academic archaeological world.

Given your qualifications and experience, what do you believe you can contribute to the ACUA/SHA if elected?

Having worked in the past in conservation, and currently working in deep water archaeology—I am involved daily with cutting edge technology and liaising with companies and governments to provide the best possible protection for our global submerged cultural resources. In my role, I have developed a broad footprint of trusted clients and colleagues across the globe. With integrity and commitment to preserving our submerged cultural heritage as my objective, I currently serve as a liaison between academia and industry, bringing the best of both worlds together for the benefit and protection of our resources, and facilitating interdisciplinary conversations that improve relations, and help people understand why adhering to the highest standards of best-practice methodology that the ACUA champions is the right thing, and best thing, to do. If elected, I will bring this front-line perspective and knowledge base.

If elected, what priorities would you emphasize taking into consideration the ACUA and SHA missions and goals, ongoing committee activities, and the management and financial challenges of the society?
 
I would emphasize remote sensing as a high priority for our current professionals and the next generation of scholars. In line with the ACUA’s correct focus on preservation in situ for most cases, an emphasis on remote sensing gives accurate geospatial positioning of these resources, as well as the capability to gain a tremendous amount of useable data from them without disturbing them.
 
I personally want to champion the idea that all archaeological excavations should have a geophysical pre-disturbance survey done. To this end, I want to work towards the creation of an affordable remote sensing package that universities could have access to, (like a system that would work in 100m water depth) and could be run by two people, globally deployable. With my experience as both a diving archaeologist and deep-water archaeologist, I believe this is the most effective contribution that we as a group could make to underwater archaeology today.
 
Cutting edge remote sensing is the way forward for archaeology—for most of our excavations, the biggest price is acquisition—being in the field for a period of time etc. With remote sensing, we can generate tremendously rich datasets in a relatively short period of time that can then be post-processed and analyzed as time permits, yielding tremendously useful comparative datasets.

Chelsea Rachelle Freeland

Present Position: Senior Analyst, Cultural Property—U.S. Department of State (contractor)

Education: M.A., Maritime Studies, East Carolina University; B.A., History and Chemistry, Austin College

Professional Service to SHA and Other Societies:

• North Carolina Maritime History Council: Tributaries Editor, Board Member, 2018–present
• Alexandria Archaeology Museum: Museum Educator and Volunteer Maritime Archaeologist, 2017–present

Research Interests: international art market; illicit trade of cultural property; international cultural heritage law; use of archaeology for nation building and identity formation, particularly in conflict zones

Biographical Statement:
When I was little, I was pretty sure I was going to be an archaeologist, but diplomat was something I never expected—it has been the biggest challenge in my career so far. As it turns out, you need quite a bit of tact to speak … diplomatically … about cultural heritage. In my current position in the Cultural Heritage Center at the U.S. Department of State, I work on international heritage policy and conduct research on the illicit trade of cultural property, including from conflict zones. I’ve represented the U.S. abroad, conducting research into cultural property protection and preservation; I also serve as a liaison for stakeholders in the U.S. art market. I study international heritage law to assist in the U.S. treaty process to prevent illicit artifacts from coming onto the U.S. art market. I’m also, perhaps not shockingly, the only underwater archaeologist at the State Department, which means I have the great responsibility—and pleasure—of consulting on maritime projects around the world. Prior to my archaeologist/diplomat life, I worked as a contractor for the Departments of Transportation and Defense, working on maritime material culture studies and conducting archival research. I also spent a field season in the very non-maritime environment of the Arabian Peninsula desert, where I learned a great deal about camel bones and Islamic art.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/freelandchelsea/

Given your qualifications and experience, what do you believe you can contribute to the ACUA/SHA if elected?

In my work on antiquities trafficking, I’ve been humbled by the level of coordination and willpower required to accomplish change across international boundaries, but also amazed at the results such dedication can reap. If elected, I would be able to bring my expertise on international law and policy to the ACUA, along with a wide-view perspective on issues across the world. I’m confident in my ability to communicate across cultural boundaries, build lasting international relationships, and work toward expanding capacity across the globe. In other roles, I’ve served as a professional editor both for archaeology theses and journal articles, as well as in marketing publications. In the last year, I’ve helped to revive the North Carolina Maritime History Council’s publication, Tributaries, back from a multiyear hiatus. I’m always happy to serve as an editor and could bring that technical and organizational skillset to the ACUA’s publications.

If elected, what priorities would you emphasize taking into consideration the ACUA and SHA missions and goals, ongoing committee activities, and the management and financial challenges of the society? 

I would love to see maritime and historical archaeology brought into larger conversations about international cultural heritage protection and preservation. I think there’s a tendency to exclude these groups because they aren’t focused on antiquities, or people don’t understand how underwater research works—and that is absolutely a detriment to the field as a whole. The ACUA has the ability to raise the profile of underwater archaeology so that international heritage protection doesn’t stop at the water’s edge.

Dr. Raymond L. Hayes

Present Positions: Professor Emeritus, Howard University College of Medicine; Research Associate, Smithsonian Institution, American History; Society Member, Marine Biological Laboratory (Woods Hole); Researcher, International Institute for Maritime Research; Volunteer, Naval History and Heritage Command

Education: Ph.D., Human Anatomy, University of Michigan; M.S., Human Anatomy, University of Michigan; B.S. cum laude, Biology, Amherst College

Professional Service to SHA and Other Societies:

• SHA: Member, Ethics Committee, Gender and Minority Affairs Committee, UNESCO Committee
• ACUA: Associate Member (MAHS representative)
• American Association for the Advancement of Science: Fellow/Life Member
• Association of Marine Laboratories of the Caribbean: Exec. Director/Life Member
• Global Coral Reef Alliance: Board Member/Researcher
• Maritime Archaeological and Historical Society: VP/Board Member/Lecturer/Editor
• Stichting Mariene Archeologie Curaçao: Project Director/Board/Author
• Institute of Maritime History: Board Member/Author
• Nautical Archaeological Society: Tutor Trainer/Lecturer
• National Association of Underwater Instructors: Instructor #3271 /45 year awardee

Research Interests: My research interests in underwater archaeology have focused on the Caribbean region and have included surveys of historical anchorages, elemental chemical analysis of submerged cultural resources, and merchant shipwreck archaeology.
 
As an active researcher, I have lectured in introductory underwater archaeology courses, edited or co-authored books on underwater archaeology, and published survey reports and book chapters.

Biographical Statement:
My extensive career of nearly 60 years as a medical educator, researcher and administrator has provided many opportunities for interaction with administrators, faculty, students and the general public in a wide range of academic institutions, both domestic (e.g., Michigan, Harvard, Pittsburgh, Morehouse and Howard) and international (e.g., University of the West Indies, University of the Virgin Islands). As an instructor, course director, department chairman, director or dean, my roles and responsibilities have been multifaceted and extensive. The professional services I have contributed to the discipline of medical anatomy encompass the fields of gross morphology, cell biology, histology and organology, developmental and molecular biology, neuroanatomy, physical anthropology, vertebrate paleontology and archaeology, all of which are cognates of my scholarly pursuits and education. Years of basic research on muscle, connective tissue, stony coral skeletogenesis, thermal coral reef bleaching, diseases of marine organisms, and global climate change have prepared me for underwater research, especially in oceanic ecosystems. The research tools, techniques and skills that I have utilized routinely as a marine biomedical scientist are directly applicable to underwater archaeology.

In retirement, I have committed my scholarly pursuits exclusively to underwater archaeological research. My field experience as a volunteer has included project participations throughout the Atlantic coasts of Maine, Massachusetts, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina and Georgia. My contributions to international surveys and instruction have been on the island nations of Anguilla, Barbados, Bonaire, Curaçao, Dominica and St. Kitts.

Given your qualifications and experience, what do you believe you can contribute to the ACUA/SHA if elected?

Emanating from my experiences as a medical educator, a scientific researcher and a participant in both domestic and international underwater archaeological projects, I am prepared to contribute the following attributes to ACUA: 

1. Ethics: My familiarity with medical education and administration has instilled in me an appreciation for precision, careful management and honesty in underwater archaeology and adherence to a behavioral code of ethical conduct that is fair, respectful and considerate of all contributors (e.g., professional leaders, volunteers, advisors, contractors, conservationists, and museum curators) to a field survey team and to an academic milieu.
2. Science: My experience in marine biomedical research has provided me with an awareness of the need to incorporate science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) into archaeological surveys wherever possible. Underwater archaeologists should be familiar with the natural sciences of chemistry, biology, physics and mathematics as well as with the applied sciences of engineering, environmental ecology and climatology.
3. Innovation: My perspectives from prior participation in and various responsibilities to underwater archaeological projects have been of an holistic nature, extending well beyond expected traditional knowledge of history, heritage and culture (social sciences) to include quantitative and qualitative data as well as post-acquisition data analyses, such as basic and complex statistics.

If elected, what priorities would you emphasize taking into consideration the ACUA and SHA missions and goals, ongoing committee activities, and the management and financial challenges of the society?

Two priorities that I would bring to the ACUA are (1) the integration of natural and applied sciences in underwater archaeological research and (2) the application of well established habits of mind and critical thinking skills in project planning, project administration and the preparation of project reports.

I would emphasize the value of scientific databases to complement observations and descriptions generated during a field project. Underwater archaeologists should be generalists, recognizing that information derived from many fields reinforce historical interpretation. Underwater archaeologists also should be revisionists, advancing and refining history through analyses of submerged sites and cultural resources. For those analyses, chemical, geological, biological, environmental, and computational data add significance to project results.

Scientists conduct experiments and report data comprehensively, even when they do not support a particular hypothesis. Comprehensive treatment of data assures integrity of the scientific method. Scientific advancement is incremental. Concepts and theories are revised or affirmed through challenge. Prevailing ideas withstand scrutiny over time. As methodologies improve, as technologies for detection and recording increase in precision, and as advancements are made, accuracy and reliability of interpretation increase. Thus, truth is approximated.

I believe that my awareness of the benefits of science and my willingness to recognize the value of all research results from submerged cultural resources and sites are essential contributions that I would bring to the ACUA.

Furthermore, I would advocate the implementation of critical thinking and problem-solving skills in underwater archaeology. My experience facilitating critical thinking in students has equipped me to instill fundamental standards and principles of reasoning in research. Finding a solution to a problem is an essential skill in any research effort.

Discovery and interpretation of artifacts and sites in underwater archaeology refines and extends documentary history. However, that contribution must be fair, logical, and sensitive. Such are possible when critical thinking and reasoning skills are adopted.  

I believe that my adherence to strategies of higher order thinking, diagnostic reasoning, and problem solving are positive factors that I would bring to the ACUA.

Kendra Kennedy

Present Position: Cultural Resource Specialist with Argonne National Laboratory
 
Education: M.A., Historical Archaeology/Anthropology, University of West Florida, 2010; B.A., Anthropology, French, and Computer Applications, University of Notre Dame, 2002
 
Professional Service to SHA and Other Societies:
Ohio-based Maritime Archaeological Survey Team (MAST): Board Member
 
Research Interests: geophysical survey and interpretation; unmanned and autonomous vehicles in archaeological survey
 
Biographical Statement:
Kendra Kennedy has over 17 years of experience as an archaeologist, both maritime and terrestrial, in the Midwest, Mid-Atlantic, Southeast, and Gulf South. She is employed as a Cultural Resource Specialist with Argonne National Laboratory near Chicago. Ms. Kennedy received her Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology, French, and Computer Applications from the University of Notre Dame and her Master of Arts in Historical Archaeology from the University of West Florida. She has worked as an archaeological consultant, SHPO compliance reviewer, instructor, and grant writer for private, academic, and nonprofit organizations and state and federal agencies. She specializes in geophysical survey and interpretation and is very interested in the increased use of unmanned and autonomous vehicles—underwater, aerial, surface, etc.—for archaeological survey. Ms. Kennedy is passionate about public outreach and working with citizen scientists to advance the discipline. She currently serves as a board member of the Ohio-based Maritime Archaeological Survey Team (MAST) and is a member of the Underwater Archaeological Society of Chicago.

Given your qualifications and experience, what do you believe you can contribute to the ACUA/SHA if elected?

If elected, what priorities would you emphasize taking into consideration the ACUA and SHA missions and goals, ongoing committee activities, and the management and financial challenges of the society?

Thank you to the voting membership of the SHA for considering my candidacy for the ACUA. If elected to the ACUA, I will bring to the Council a nuanced understanding of the various worlds of archaeology and the potential and stresses inherent to each due to my broad range of experience as a terrestrial and maritime archaeological consultant and compliance reviewer (i.e., both sides of the coin) in the private, government, and nonprofit sectors. In addition, my firsthand work with citizen scientists, particularly avocational underwater archaeologists, has provided me with a clear understanding of what archaeologists can and need to do to further educational outreach and encourage responsible public participation in maritime archaeology. If elected, I will prioritize increasing ACUA’s outreach to citizen scientists and organizations that work with and train them. As a new mother at a time when female archaeologists have become a major part of the archaeological work force, I promise I will also strive to find feasible ways to facilitate and encourage conference participation for archaeologists with infants and small children. This is especially important in our field since most archaeologists “go where the work is” and are thus unable to rely on the assistance of often distant friends and family. Finally, if elected, I will also bring to bear my experience in fundraising and technological innovation to all aspects of my work with the ACUA. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Jeneva Wright

Present Position: Underwater Archaeologist supporting Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency Partnerships and Innovations Directorate (SNA International CTR)
 
Education: M.A., East Carolina University; B.A., University of Montana

Professional Service to SHA and Other Societies:

• SHA: Member, 2013–present
• Register of Professional Archaeologists: 2015–present

Research Interests: World War II submerged cultural heritage; climate change impacts to submerged sites; battlefield archaeology; history and archaeology of the global slave trade; marine remote sensing data acquisition and interpretation; citizen science
 
Biographical Statement:
Following graduation from ECU’s Program in Maritime Studies, Jeneva began her career as an underwater archaeologist with the National Park Service Submerged Resources Center. She departed the NPS to support the Partnerships and Innovations Directorate of the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, tasked with conducting research and coordinating projects to locate and recover missing U.S. service members associated with submerged aircraft losses. She has conducted field projects around the world, ranging in focus from the documentation of tropical shipwrecks and alpine lake habitats, to searching for shipwrecks associated with the global slave trade. Her publication history focuses on climate change research, particularly its impacts and interactions with submerged or coastal cultural heritage. Her efforts currently focus on the planning, development, and management of field missions led by DPAA partners worldwide.

Given your qualifications and experience, what do you believe you can contribute to the ACUA/SHA if elected?

The core of my professional experience centers on collaboration and teamwork. My commitment to communication and bridge-building results in inclusive partnerships that acknowledge competing priorities to create shared goals. Given the diversity of stakeholders in our field and the resultant wide range of concerns, this dedication is an asset I would direct toward the development of innovative and productive solutions to the challenges facing the ACUA board.

If elected, what priorities would you emphasize taking into consideration the ACUA and SHA missions and goals, ongoing committee activities, and the management and financial challenges of the society?

My priority would focus on outreach to multi-disciplinary partners. Whether the challenge is tackling the next frontier of deep-water investigations, understanding the devastating threats that climate change poses to submerged and coastal sites, or fostering inclusivity and diversity to champion all members of our field, I believe that solutions are best sought by expanding our horizons and seeking pluralistic viewpoints and expertise. Underwater archaeology cannot exist in a vacuum, and my emphasis would be on forging connections to increase sustainability, efficiency, and knowledge transfer.

Hannah Fleming

Present Position: Material Culture Specialist, Conservation Department, The Mariners’ Museum and Park
 
Education: M.A., History, Program in Maritime Studies, East Carolina University, 2017; B.A., Anthropology focusing in Archaeology, The University of North Carolina at Wilmington, 2012
 
Professional Service to SHA and Other Societies:

While I am a member of several professional bodies and have presented and chaired sessions before, I have performed no professional services to date. I am excited for the opportunity to serve and hope that this will merely be the beginning of my service to the profession.
 
Research Interests: museum archaeology; material culture analysis; interdisciplinary relationships between archaeology, conservation, and other museum professionals; public archaeology at museums; maritimity
 
Biographical Statement:
In my four years at the Mariners’ Museum and Park, I have undertaken development, public-facing communications, and event planning initiatives for my department and for the institution as a whole. After completing my master’s degree in maritime archaeology, my talents were re-focused to the study and interpretation of the Museum’s archaeological collections, including objects from periods of prehistory to the twentieth century and collections like USS Monitor, the Ronson shipwreck (aka Princess Carolina), and the 1934-35 excavation of Yorktown shipwreck artifacts. This gives me the opportunity to incorporate different archaeological methods, theoretical lenses, and interpretations into the museum environment through material cultural analysis and public outreach. As someone with a training in archaeology and colleagues in many other museum roles, it allows for interdisciplinary conversations and partnerships that result in better programming, exhibitions, and research projects. I work closely with the conservators, curators, archivists, collections managers, and other researchers to ensure that the stories being told are engaging and impactful for visitors and for the professional community. This allows the Museum to reach and engage a larger audience and to connect them to their maritime story(ies).

Given your qualifications and experience, what do you believe you can contribute to the ACUA/SHA if elected?

I believe I can help bridge the gap between museum professionals and the archaeological professional community. At The Mariners’ Museum and Park, we connect people to the world’s waterways because that is how people are connected to each other. In my role at the museum and in all other professional pursuits, I strive to find the interconnections; whether these are professional integrations between archaeologists, conservators, and maritime industry; academic overlaps between history, science, and social science; or social connections between people, things, and the environment. My projects are varied in time period, theoretical framework, and end goal; but are all built around the idea that the public is more engaged when they see their connection to the story being told on both a micro and macro scale. While I have chosen a professional position outside of fieldwork, I feel that my expanding professional experiences and contacts puts me in a position to advocate for more interdisciplinary conversations and projects, including, but not limited to, both what museum professionals can contribute to the archaeological discourse and what can and should happen with archaeological collections after integration into a museum.
 
If elected, what priorities would you emphasize taking into consideration the ACUA and SHA missions and goals, ongoing committee activities, and the management and financial challenges of the society?

If elected, I will emphasize integration and communication between museum and archaeological professionals. Better understandings and communication between the fields will only increase ACUA’s ability to further the organizational goals “of education, outreach, preservation, and international cooperation for the protection of underwater cultural heritage (UCH).”