Michelle Dartis, Author at

Independent Historian

A native of Indianapolis, Indiana, Michelle Dartis is an adjunct faculty member for two higher education institutions and a freelance writer. She holds a bachelor’s degree in social work and three distinct graduate degrees in library science, higher education with a specialization in leadership for student success, and human and social services. Currently, she is a Ph. D. candidate in the Human and Social Services program at Walden University and plans to graduate in the of summer 2022.

Michelle is the recipient of various awards, including the Indiana Librarians Leading in Diversity MLS Fellowship Project and the American Library Association/Spectrum Institute REACH 21 Scholarship Initiative. She has over thirty years of professional experience in mental health, developmental disabilities, sexual assault counseling, case management, and teaching.

Michelle’s debut novel, “This Ain’t That: An Erotic Novel” was published in September 2021 on Amazon.

Willie Hobbs Moore (1934 -1994)

Willie Hobbs Moore has the distinction of being the first African American woman to earn a doctorate in physics, granted to her from the University of Michigan in 1972. Moore was born in Atlantic City, New Jersey on May 23, 1934. In 1952, she relocated to Ann … Read MoreWillie Hobbs Moore (1934 -1994)

Gloria Twine Chisum (1930- )

An experimental psychologist, Gloria Twine Chisum is primarily known for developing protective eyewear for pilots in extreme conditions. Chisum was born in Muskogee, Oklahoma in 1930. She grew up in Muskogee but then attended Howard University where she earned an undergraduate degree in psychology in 1951 and completed an MS in psychology … Read MoreGloria Twine Chisum (1930- )

Jackie “Moms” Mabley (1894-1975)

Jackie “Moms” Mabley found fame and fortune as a stand-up comedian during the twentieth century. Beginning as a staple on the chitlin’ circuit and late night talk show favorite, she went on to become an internationally known entertainer whose career spanned five decades. One of … Read MoreJackie “Moms” Mabley (1894-1975)

Denise E. Simmons ( – )

E. Denise Simmons made history in 2008 by becoming the first openly lesbian African American mayor in the United States. She was selected by fellow city councilors in Cambridge, Massachusetts, to serve as mayor of the city for a two-year term from 2008 to 2010. … Read MoreDenise E. Simmons ( – )

Kelvin Atkinson (1969- )

A Democratic member of the Nevada Senate, Kelvin Atkinson made history in April 2013 by becoming the fifth openly LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender) member, and the first black gay member of the Nevada legislature. He revealed his sexual orientation during a legislative debate surrounding … Read MoreKelvin Atkinson (1969- )

Nell Hardy Carter (1948-2003)

Nell Hardy Carter was an American actress and vocalist who enjoyed a twenty-five year career in film, stage, television, and the recording industry. Born as Nell Ruth Hardy on September 13, 1948, in Birmingham, Alabama, she and her eight siblings were raised a low-income neighborhood … Read MoreNell Hardy Carter (1948-2003)

Wanda Evans Coleman (1946-2013)

Wanda Evans Coleman was an American poet and writer who won critical acclaim for her avant-garde work, but remained relatively unknown to a broader audience. Her 30 year literary career included a myriad of poetry and fiction publications. Born and raised in the Watts section … Read MoreWanda Evans Coleman (1946-2013)

Sherman Alexander Hemsley (1938-2012)

“Image Ownership: Luke Ford” American actor Sherman Alexander Hemsley was an Air Force veteran and postal worker before becoming a television actor. He is best known for his role as George Jefferson on the CBS television series All in the Family, The Jeffersons, and as … Read MoreSherman Alexander Hemsley (1938-2012)

André Leon Talley (1949-2022)

Known as one of the fashion world’s most recognized personalities, Talley stepped down as Vogue’s editor-at-large after three decades to become the editor-in-chief for Numero Russia, an international magazine based in Russia. Talley was the son of William C. Talley, a taxi driver, and Alma … Read MoreAndré Leon Talley (1949-2022)

Paris K.C. Barclay (1956- )

Paris K.C. Barclay is an award-winning American television director, producer, and LGBT rights activist. In 2013, he broke new ground when he was named President of the Directors Guild of America, making him the first out gay male and the first African American to hold … Read MoreParis K.C. Barclay (1956- )