In the realm of African American public history, Jasmine Daria Cannon stands as a beacon of scholarly excellence and cultural stewardship. As a Black feminist curator, writer, and researcher, her work is a testament to the enduring legacy of African American women. Jasmine’s journey is one of dedication, passion, and an unyielding commitment to preserving and celebrating the multifaceted narratives of Black communities across the country.

 

Jasmine’s academic journey began at North Carolina State University where she earned her B.A. in Women’s and Gender Studies. Her quest for knowledge continued in the esteemed halls of The George Washington University, where she pursued an M.A. in American Studies with a concentration in Museum Studies. Recognized as the Columbian College of Arts and Sciences’ 2019 Distinguished Master’s Scholar, her academic prowess shone brightly as she delved into the intricacies of museum curation and cultural preservation. She eventually matriculated to Rutgers University, where she earned her M.A. in Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies. It was here that she laid the foundation for her future endeavors, immersing herself in the study of African American women’s history and embracing the complexities of gender and identity.

 

Armed with her academic credentials, Jasmine embarked on a journey of practical engagement, assuming roles of profound impact in the realm of public history. Her tenure as the Pope House Museum Manager at the City of Raleigh Museum further solidified her reputation as a visionary curator and educator. Leading the museum's interpretive planning process and spearheading public programming initiatives, Jasmine ensured that the stories of African American history were not only preserved but also shared and celebrated with audiences of all ages.

 

Currently, as the Jefferson Curator at the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of American History, Jasmine works to curate exhibitions that resonate with diverse audiences. In this role, she also conducts extensive research on artifacts, collaborates with cross-functional teams, and engages with museum visitors to enhance their understanding of American history and culture. Her archival and research expertise at the Smithsonian enriches narratives, fostering deeper connections to American history and culture.

 

Beyond the museum walls, Jasmine is a dedicated educator, shaping the minds of future generations through her teaching and mentorship. As an Instructor at Wake Tech Community College, she cultivates critical thinking skills and empowers students to engage with interdisciplinary fields. Her commitment to excellence and innovation in teaching underscores her dedication to shaping future generations of scholars and activists.

 

Jasmine’s impact reverberates far beyond the classroom and museum walls. Her research and writing have been presented at esteemed conferences, such as the 2022 Association of Black Women Historians convening and the 2018 Graduate Association of African American History conference, shedding light on overlooked aspects of African American history and advocating for inclusivity in historical narratives. From her paper on the preservation of NC’s sole Black house museum to her research on Camden City’s first race riot, her work underscores her unwavering commitment to amplifying marginalized voices and promoting social justice.

 

In recognition of her contributions to the field, Jasmine has received numerous awards and fellowships, including the Women’s History Pre-Doctoral Fellowship from the National Women’s History Museum and the Teaching Fellowship from the Digital Ethnic Futures Consortium. Her professional affiliations with organizations such as the Association of African American Museums and the Association of Black Women Historians further attest to her standing as a respected figure in the field of public history.

 

Jasmine Daria Cannon’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of scholarship and activism. Through her tireless efforts, she continues to illuminate the tapestry of African American history, ensuring that the voices of the past are not forgotten and that the struggles and triumphs of Black communities are celebrated for generations to come.

 

She is also a Paulsboro, NJ native, descendant of Southern migrants from Georgia and North Carolina, daughter, sister, and friend.