Miriann Meyeringh, B.A. 2003

Faculty, Our Lady of Lourdes Academy – Miami, FL

2003 Major: African & African American Studies and History; minor in Spanish

How has being an African & African American Studies graduate from Duke helped shape you personally and/or professionally?

"As an educator, I am so proud of my major - especially at this moment when critical race theory is being stripped from classrooms in Florida and other states around the country. It is of the utmost importance to ensure that minority students in the classroom have a voice and are represented; that teachers are not stripped of not only their first amendment freedoms, but of the ability to accurately teach American History in an inclusive and comprehensive manner; and that we as educators and communities across the nation are able to address systemic racism that has plagued our nation through effective changes in policy."

What advice would you give students in Duke's African & African American Studies programs? 

"Study what interests you and the subjects you love. It sounds cheesy, but follow your passions - if you are curious about something, dig some more. The process of guided discovery with a professor and mentor at Duke is an invaluable experience. That's what led me to the AAAS department and I wouldn't change a thing."

 

Miriann Meyeringh