Cheryl Oestreicher, Candidate for Regent for Examination Development
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE:
Head of Special Collections and Archives Boise State University, 2012-present
Project Archivist for Civil Rights collections Auburn Avenue Research Library on African American Culture and History/Emory University, 2009-2012
Project Archivist for Chicago Jazz and Contemporary Poetry collections University of Chicago, 2008-2009
Archives Associate Drew University, 2005-2008
John Foster and Janet Avery Dulles Archival Fellowship Princeton University, 2005
EDUCATION:
- Doctor of Philosophy in Modern History and Literature, Drew University: 2011.
- Master of Philosophy in Modern History and Literature, Drew University: 2007.
- Master of Library and Information Science, Dominican University: 2004.
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication, University of Wisconsin Oshkosh: 1994.
PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITIES:
- Academy of Certified Archvists: Member, 2011-present; Exam Development Committee: 2019-present; Nominating Committee: 2017-2019; Recertification Review Task Force: 2016-2017.
- Society of American Archivists: Author, Reference and Access for Archives and Manuscripts, Archival Fundamental Series III: 2020; SAA-ACRL/RBMS Joint Task Force to Revise Statement on Access to Research Materials: 2017-2019; Co-Chair, Annual Meeting Program Committee: 2015-2016; Publications Board, 2012-2015.
- National Historical Publications and Records Commission: Review Panelist for Access to Historical Records grants: 2016-present.
- National Endowment for the Humanities: Review Panelist for Preservation Grants for Smaller Institutions grants, 2018-present.
- Council on Library and Information Resources: Review Panelist for Cataloging Hidden Special Collections and Archives grants: 2012-2014.
“What is the role of archival certification in the modern work environment?"
As the archival profession evolves, so does the role of archival certification. What I think is beneficial about becoming a certified archivist is that it is an opportunity for any professional, whether aspiring, new, or seasoned, to gain a breadth of knowledge that contributes to being a well-rounded archivist. It offers exam takers the chance to broaden their knowledge beyond what was learned in an academic program or at a job by deepening one's foundational knowledge about theories and practices. Taking this initiative is not limited to passing an exam, but encourages professionals to use ideas and insights gained towards their work at their institution or within the profession. The exam is not the end, but the beginning.
What I have gained from being a certified archivist is also being part of a community of dedicated professionals. The ACA Board, committee members, and others continually strive to develop resources and opening prospects for members to become more connected, develop relationships, and be involved in professional activities. This is not limited to participating in a single activity or just serving as a committee member, but engaging in purposeful, high-level work with the goal towards meaningful discussions and collaborations that advance the goals of the ACA and the profession.