Kendra D. Boyd

Dr. Kendra D. Boyd is an esteemed assistant professor in the Department of History at Rutgers University-New Brunswick. Her academic pursuits are deeply rooted in the exploration of Black business and economic history, urban history, and migration. Dr. Boyd is at the forefront of the Black Camden Oral History Project, a significant initiative that seeks to capture and preserve the rich tapestry of African American life and activism in Camden. Collaborating with Jesse Bayker, the research project manager and digital archivist at the Scarlet and Black Research Center, Dr. Boyd is dedicated to gathering personal recollections and first-person accounts that illuminate the experiences of Black students and city residents, particularly during the transformative decades of the 1960s and 1970s. The Black Camden Oral History Project is a testament to Dr. Boyd's commitment to uncovering and amplifying the voices of those who have historically been marginalized. By focusing on civil rights activism, entrepreneurship, and community organizing, the project aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the social dynamics and struggles that have shaped Camden's history. Dr. Boyd's work is not only academically rigorous but also deeply impactful, as it seeks to foster a greater appreciation for the contributions of African Americans to the city's development and cultural heritage. Dr. Boyd's scholarly contributions have been widely recognized, earning her accolades such as the prestigious Letitia Woods Brown Memorial Article Prize. Her research has been instrumental in advancing the field of Black business and economic history, offering fresh perspectives and insights into the complex interplay between race, economics, and urban development. Her dedication to her field is evident in her active recruitment of participants for the oral history project, ensuring that a diverse array of voices and experiences are represented. Through her work, Dr. Boyd is not only preserving history but also creating a platform for dialogue and reflection on the ongoing struggles for social justice and equality. Her efforts to document the stories of those who have advocated for change in Camden are invaluable, providing future generations with a richer understanding of the past and its implications for the present and future. Dr. Boyd's research continues to inspire and inform, bridging the gap between academia and the broader community. In addition to her research, Dr. Boyd is a dedicated educator, committed to mentoring students and fostering a deeper understanding of history's relevance to contemporary issues. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes critical thinking and engagement with primary sources, encouraging students to explore the intersections of race, economics, and urban life. Through her courses, Dr. Boyd seeks to empower students to become informed and active participants in their communities. Dr. Boyd's work exemplifies the transformative power of historical scholarship, highlighting the importance of preserving and understanding the diverse narratives that constitute our shared history. Her contributions to the field and her community are a testament to her passion for uncovering the stories that shape our world, making her a vital figure in the ongoing dialogue about race, history, and social change.