Last Updated on May 31, 2023
Bethune-Cookman University (B-CU) is proud to announce that historian and storyteller Dr. Crystal A. deGregory has been newly appointed as the Director of the Bethune Center for the Study of Women and Girls. In addition to this role, Dr. deGregory will also serve as an associate professor of history.
The Bethune Center for the Study of Women and Girls, newly launched with the appointment of Dr. deGregory, is an artfully crafted resource for intentional research, programming and support for issues paramount to the survival and success of women and girls.
Of particular note are gender equity topics such as women’s leadership, food, and housing security, body image, physical and sexual health and safety, mental health and emotional wellness, maternal health and healthy relationships.
In addition, when possible, the Center will support student-led initiatives and institutionalize signature events and programming that undergird its role as an affirming space for women and all members of the B-CU community who actively resist sexism and all forms of oppression.
“Mary McLeod Bethune’s legacy looms large over American life and culture, and nowhere is it larger than in the perpetuity of Bethune-Cookman University…This Center, and especially its focus on women and girls, is one more example of the enduring nature of her faithful witness.”
– Dr. Crystal A. deGregory
Prior to Being Appointed as the Director of the Bethune Center for the Study of Women and Girls
Before this role, Dr. deGregory served as a research fellow at the Center for Historic Preservation at Middle Tennessee State University. She also serves as the founder and executive editor of HBCUstory, a digital storytelling project intended to preserve, present and promote inspiring stories of the HBCU experience.
Dr. deGregory has a bachelor’s degree in history from Fisk University and; master’s degrees in history and education from Vanderbilt University and Tennessee State University, respectively, as well as a doctorate of philosophy in history from Vanderbilt University. More information about her experience and publications can be found at CrystaldeGregory.com.
