In a routine fit of self-defiance, I endeavored to re-engage with the archival profession after a mental health hiatus by attending the 2026 Annual Conference set in New Orleans, Louisiana. What I saw, gave me renewed hope for accountability, the fair and humane treatment of disabled and marginalized heritage workers and cultural stewards, and inclusion within our profession. I watched as outgoing Society of American Archivist President Derek Mosely spoke words of inspiration and quoted motivating words from his predecessors to a crowd of faces that were uncertain and unsure of how to respond to our nation’s cultural preservation challenges. He spoke of revisiting the takeaways of our previous presidents and using them to build our future. I felt the message in my archiving heart. We need to build on our foundations.

As a Georgia archivist, I found solidarity in seasoned information stewards, former mentors, and students & new professionals as we navigated the conference sessions and meet ups. Although time flew as I was enjoying the camaraderie of my peers and the culture of New Orleans, lasting connections were made. My confidence and resolve to be the leader I needed during my formative years as a junior archivist were strengthened and the connections I’ve developed and cultivated in the field of archives were evident in these last few weeks. I highly recommend that any new or aspiring information professionals apply for travel scholarships (local and national) and plan to attend the annual conference at least once, if not for the scenic destinations, for the wealth of knowledge that only face to face interactions can bring to archivists and other motivated cultural heritage workers.

Some of my most treasured memories this year were:
1. The Opening Plenary – Seeing President Moseley speak always makes me feel proud and represented as a Black Archivist in the south

2. Listening to the accounts of the panel of the Cold Case Review Board discuss their work on the case of Chrispon Charles (1928-1949) and the sense of accomplishment they feel when helping families understand what happened to their loved ones

3. Engaging with the vendors – specifically the Community Care Workshop folks. I felt that equipping my community to preserve its legacy through records care is possible even as an independent or lone archivist

4.Taking in the culture of NOLA! The conference built in a day where attendees could just enjoy the city’s art and culture

Chaun Monique Wynn, MLIS, CA
Wynn Archival Research & Consulting
Clark Atlanta University

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