Independent Historian

A native of Indianapolis, Indiana, Michelle Dartis is a self-published author, adjunct faculty member, freelance writer, and works as a therapist and as a behavior consultant. 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. Recently, she earned a Ph. D. degree in Human and Social Services.

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-five years of professional experience in mental health, behavior management, therapy, 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.com and became a first-time children’s book author in December 2023 by publishing “Trinity’s Earthly Arrival from Heaven.” This book is available on Amazon.com and Barnes & Noble.com. Her forthcoming second children’s book, “I Wish I Was White: Racial Identity and Self-Esteem.” This book is based on a real event that took place a few years ago when Michelle’s granddaughter Trinity said one day to her unexpectedly, “I wish I was White.” Trinity’s statement had such a profound impact on her, that it led her to write a book based on her comment. The book is about strengthening racial identity and uplifting self-esteem in today’s youth (no matter what they find “wrong” with them), especially Black girls.

Raven-Symoné Christina Pearman (1985- )

Raven-Symoné Christina Pearman, better known as “Raven-Symoné,” is an American actress and recording artist. Her entertainment career began when she starred in advertisements for well-known brands such as Jell-O and Cool Whip and as a young model for the Ford Modeling Company. Pearman was born … Read MoreRaven-Symoné Christina Pearman (1985- )

Jason Paul Collins (1978- )

Jason Collins, a National Basketball Association center, made history in May 2013 by becoming the first professional athlete in a major American team sport to reveal his homosexuality in an interview that appeared in Sports Illustrated online pharmacy buy buspar no prescription online pharmacy buy … Read MoreJason Paul Collins (1978- )

Ramona [“Sapphire”] Lofton (1950- )

Ramona Lofton, better known as Sapphire, is a self-admitted bisexual, novelist, poet, and performance artist. She gained prominence for her 1996 debut novel, Push, and other works that focus on the alarming realities of inner city life. Lofton was born on August 4, 1950 in … Read MoreRamona [“Sapphire”] Lofton (1950- )