Katrina Zarelli
Introduction
My name is Katrina Zarelli, and I am a Ph.D. Candidate at Middle Tennessee State University from the Department of History. I have a master's degree from the University of South Carolina in Library and Information Science and a bachelor's degree from Flagler College in History. I am an AmeriCorps Researcher for the Tennessee State Parks, focusing on accessibility opportunities for the interpretive centers and educational programs.
Education
2021 - Present
Doctorate
Middle Tennessee State University
My major in Public History, focusing on Museum Management and Historic Preservation, has been marked by hands-on experiences and impactful projects. Collaborating on the creation of the Stories from Black Murfreesboro and Rutherford County exhibit at the Bradley Academy Museum in Murfreesboro, TN, I spearheaded research and design efforts for the section highlighting the "Business and Media in the African American Community of Murfreesboro." Additionally, I contributed to developing disaster plans and strategic plans for archives, including at the University School of Nashville. Engaging with communities in Alabama, I participated in historic preservation projects, such as assisting the First Baptist Church with a National Register Nomination and aiding the Shiloh Rosenwald School Museum with museum updates and community engagement initiatives. Moreover, I led initiatives such as creating a Strategic Plan and submitting grant applications for archival improvements. Further enhancing my skill set, I managed a project to develop an accessible online tour of the Rutherford County Courthouse Museum, utilizing advanced digital tools to ensure inclusivity and accessibility. These multifaceted experiences have shaped my commitment to preserving and sharing history in meaningful ways.
2018 - 2020
Master
University of South
My focus in Library and Information Science, with concentrations in Archives and Special Collections, has equipped me with a diverse skill set. Through practical applications such as forming an Omeka digital photography collection from my Vietnam study abroad photos, I gained proficiency in information organization and retrieval, mastering Dublin Core standards and scanning techniques. I also developed databases using XML standards in Microsoft Access and honed storytelling techniques by designing and performing storytelling videos. Practical experiences extended to establishing finding aids and implementing educational programs in library settings, emphasizing community engagement and outreach. Furthermore, I delved into preservation planning, crafting disaster plans, and formulating collection policies for comprehensive library management. These experiences have fortified my commitment to effective information management and community service within the library and information profession.
2014 - 2018
Bachelor
Flagler College
My academic journey is characterized by a genuine exploration of history, complemented by minors in Political Science, Religious Studies, and Creative Writing. As a member of Phi Alpha Theta, I've immersed myself in the scholarly pursuit of history, fostering a deep understanding of the past. A pivotal experience was my study-abroad program in Vietnam, where I delved into sites integral to the Vietnam War, placing its significance within a global context. Additionally, through an independent study focusing on Public History in a Library, I honed my skills in cataloging, curating special collections, and organizing public events. This included creating a comprehensive resource guide on Civil Rights Movement materials for the Flagler College History Department. These diverse experiences have enriched my academic journey and deepened my commitment to preserving and sharing historical narratives.