The Meek-Eaton Black Archives, Research Center and Museum (MEBA) at FAMU has been awarded a $500,000 grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), marking a significant investment in the preservation and accessibility of African American history.
The highly competitive award, granted through IMLS’s Museum Grants for African American History and Culture program, is the second such national recognition for MEBA in just three years. It arrives at a critical time, as several federal funding streams for museums and archives were eliminated earlier this year, making the achievement a notable testament to the institution's national standing and compelling mission.
Founded in 1976, MEBA is one of the country’s few federally designated repositories dedicated to African American history and culture. The new funding will directly support the second phase of its “21st Century Access Program,” a multi-faceted initiative aimed at modernizing its services and expanding its reach.
“We are deeply honored to receive this grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services,” said Timothy A. Barber, director of MEBA. “This funding not only strengthens our ability to expand digital access to our collections but also ensures robust support for our students through a multi-year internship program designed to prepare the next generation of museum and archival professionals.”
The grant will fuel several key projects, including enhanced collection care, the expansion of the “MEBA Digital” online portal, new educational programs, and broader community engagement efforts. A cornerstone of the initiative is the creation of funded internships, providing FAMU students with hands-on experience in archival science, museum curation, and digital humanities.
FAMU Provost Allyson L. Watson, Ph.D., emphasized the grant’s alignment with the university’s commitment to excellence and student development.
“This investment underscores the national significance of the Meek-Eaton Black Archives,” said Dr. Watson. “FAMU remains committed to strengthening institutional resources that equip our students with the skills and experiences needed to lead in the museum and cultural heritage professions of the future.”
This latest award ensures that MEBA will continue to serve as an indispensable resource for researchers, students, and the public, safeguarding the rich and complex narratives of African American history for generations to come.