PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas (February 6, 2025) — Evelyn Todd, a graduate student in the Master of Business Administration program at Prairie View A&M University, is making a lasting impact on the university’s historical preservation efforts through her work in the RISE Program. Her research project, Preventing Erasure of PVAMU History through Digitization – The Digital PV Panther Project, aims to protect and preserve the university’s legacy by digitizing crucial historical records.

 

Todd’s involvement in the project has given her the opportunity to explore both her passion for history and her academic background. Under the mentorship of Tyler Moore, Ph.D., Todd has focused on preserving the history of the Wyatt Chapel Community Cemetery located behind PVAMU’s campus. This historical site, which is important to the local community, has been the subject of ongoing efforts to restore and honor it for future generations.

“The highlight of my experience in the RISE Program has definitely been learning about the history of the Wyatt Chapel Community Cemetery and working with a dedicated group of stakeholders,” Todd said. “We’ve been able to not only restore this cemetery, but also ensure its historical significance is never forgotten. It’s been incredibly rewarding to collaborate with people who share my passion for preserving history.”

In addition to her research on the cemetery, Todd values her experience working alongside other RISE students who share her commitment to preserving lesser-known histories. “It’s been inspiring to work with like-minded students who truly care about the underrepresented history of PVAMU and the City of Prairie View,” Todd explained. “Together, we are able to use ethical preservation practices to honor those who came before us.”

Todd’s academic journey reflects a unique intersection of interests. While her bachelor’s degree is in Mass Communication, Todd is now pursuing a master’s degree in business administration. Her research ties together her diverse academic pursuits, and she has found ways to merge them in a way that allows her to work across multiple fields.

“I didn’t want to limit myself to one area,” Todd said. “I have a background in Mass Communication, and now I’m earning my MBA, but I also care deeply about historical preservation. The RISE Program has been a great opportunity to combine all of these passions. It has expanded my knowledge and allowed me to see just how much can be accomplished when you bridge different fields.”

Upon graduation, Todd plans to pursue a career as an archivist specializing in historical preservation. She also aims to continue growing her media production company, Writing Hands Productions, which focuses on storytelling and content creation.

The RISE Program, led by Prairie View A&M University Vice President of Research and Innovation Magesh Rajan, Ph.D., P.E., allows Todd to apply her diverse skills and interests to meaningful projects. The initiative advances critical research and innovation while fostering interdisciplinary collaboration among PVAMU faculty, students, and university partners.

By Joe McGinty