African American History Museum Announces the Selection of
the First Executive Director, Ms. Nalo Mitchell

Springfield, IL— April 1, 2023

The Board of Directors of the Springfield and Central Illinois African American History Museum (AAHM) is pleased to announce that Nalo Mitchell has accepted the position of Executive Director of the museum as of April 1, 2023. The position was created with funds from the Federal Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS).

Nalo is married to Lead Pastor Darrell Mitchell of Faith Community Center Springfield and has 3 children. She has lived in Springfield for more than 18 years. Her family roots date back to the 1800’s with a relationship to the John Curtis Family, one of the Pioneer Families featured in the AAHM exhibit.

Ms. Mitchell has a BA from Arizona State University in Broadcast Journalism from the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication. She has a Master of Science in Management with a Concentration in Organizational Leadership and Change from Colorado Technical University. Most recently, Nalo served as Coordinator of School, Family and Community Relations for Springfield School District #186. She was instrumental in establishing a partnership between the District and AAHM that still exists today.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility (DEIA) are at the forefront of AAHM. She looks to provide equity for all who walk through the museum doors to experience the exhibits and participate in programs and activities. One of Ms. Mitchell’s goals is to continue to enhance opportunities for all students and persons regardless of their race, socio-economic background, or disability because Black History is American History.

Ms. Mitchell says, “Our community desires for all to thrive and we can do that by making DEIA a part of our commitment which enhances our mission: to tell authentic stories about African American life in Central Illinois, past and present as we celebrate and share our history and culture, while planning for our future.”

We look forward to your continued support of the African American History Museum (AAHM) and join us in welcoming our vibrant new leader, Ms. Nalo Mitchell, AAHM Executive Director.