Rosemary Stevenson: Museum Campaign

Whether it was the history of William Leidesdorff as the unsung black forefather of San Francisco, the history of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Incorporated, lost poetry from the Harlem Renaissance, or the indigenous Congolese craftwork of the Gullah Islands- if there was a story of the African American experience to be told, Rosemary Stevenson was there to find the answer! For over 20 years, my mother served as a Research Librarian, Bibliographer and Teacher of African American Studies at the University of Illinois. Thousands of students crossed paths with her in room 328 of the University of Illinois Library to complete their papers, research (and let’s not forget pledging!). In honor of her amazing legacy of lifelong learning, research, and storytelling of the African Diaspora, we couldn’t think of a better way to honor her than by memorializing her name at The Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. Our original goal of making her an ambassador has been surpassed by your generosity. We've updated our goal to memorialize her on the donor wall. Unfortunately, my mother’s battle with Alzheimer’s and Cancer prevented her from experiencing the museum in person, but this lifelong memorial will speak her name in the hallowed halls that encompassed her life’s work. In lieu of flowers, a contribution in any amount would be greatly appreciated to reach our goal. Your money will further the important work of education, a cause my mom believed in. We will keep you posted with photos in March when we make an official visit. Thank you so much and God bless! Tiffany Stevenson (her grateful daughter)