Hello all,

My name is Brad Miller, professional M.B.A student at the School of Business & Industry, Florida A&M University.  I'm from Nassau, Bahamas and learned about the Black Archives through a job search that was filled with hurdles because of my status as an international student.  While applying to the Black Archives, I had no idea how my business acumen would provide me with the enriching experience that I am privileged to be embarking on.

Through listening to artist like Tupac and Bob Marley, whom referenced great African-American leaders in their music and other forms of pop culture, I was able to gain some knowledge of what I would come to be encapsulated with as I walk the halls of the museum.  My grandmother also shared stories with me about her vantage point of the Civil Rights era as a nurse in the Bahamas.  By the time I began my tenure at Florida Memorial University, I was already eager to learn about African American History.  Through other courses such as African American Psychology and other external readings, my knowledge has accumulated, but it had yet to come full circle for  me.

Working in the Inspired Authorities in Museum Management (I AMM) training program as an I AMM Fellow, I am learning the intricacies of museum management.  The capacity that I work in is in Marketing & Media and Development.  This experience is allowing me to hone my skills in planning and coordinating events; also allowing me to become a more proficient taskmaster and enhancing my ability to pay attention to detail.

What I love most about working in the museum is interacting with the individuals that come from near and far with a great appreciation for the historical artifacts that we have here.  Today I spoke with a lady from Louisiana who made it her goal to stop here on her way back from a road trip to visit family.  Being an educator, we had an in depth conversation about the generational gap that needs to be bridged between young and old.  The younger generation is at war with the messengers of a history that is full of hope and triumph.  With technology growing at its rapid pace, we are losing touch with our forefathers.  Many of us may argue that technology promotes information sharing; which is true.  But it is in my belief that it would be in our misfortune to neglect a generation with first-hand accounts of our history.  I encourage you to share your thoughts.

Thank you