Wednesday, July 27, 2016
UMES welcomes local professor and historian as chair
Dr. Clara Small, well-known educator and historian, was appointed interim chair of the Department of Social Sciences at UMES effective July 1.
Small comes to UMES after 36 years as a history professor at neighboring Salisbury University. There, she taught African-American History; Racism and Discrimination; Civil Rights in American Society; Minority Groups; American Colonial History; U.S. History; Oral History; and World Civilizations. Her work garnered her a 2005 University System of Maryland Regent’s Award for Public Service.
Officially, Small retired May 31, 2013, but her research and academic activities belie that.
Volume two of her book, “Compass Points: Profiles and Biographies of African Americans from the Delmarva Peninsula,” just went to the publisher and another, “Dorchester County United States Colored Troops,” is in the works with co-author Teresa Neild of the Heritage Museums and Gardens of Dorchester.
“The local projects are so interesting,” Small said. “My goal is to preserve this history.”
“We are fortunate to have such an Eastern Shore treasure join our administrative team to lead the Department of Social Sciences during this interim period,” said Dr. Ray Davis, dean of the School of Education, Social Sciences, and The Arts. “Dr. Small brings a wealth of professional experiences and new perspectives to this position.”
Small is no stranger to the UMES. Prior to her retirement, she taught several classes here and was a frequent visitor with her leadership role in Pi Gamma Mu, the International Honor Society for the Social Sciences.
“Returning to a full-time schedule will be interesting,” Small said, “but I’m used to being active and driving here and there for my research.”
Gail Stephens, assistant director, UMES Office of Public Relations, 410-651-7580.
