Research & Engagement
The W&M Bray School lab applies an interdisciplinary approach centered in the Humanities and takes into account the evolving roles and social perceptions of religion, slavery, democracy, higher education, philanthropy, and economics. The Bray School Lab will engage research teams including undergraduate and graduate students, post-doctoral fellows, and community members to incubate and scale innovative social justice scholarship, in collaboration with descendants of Bray School students and other partners.
Areas of Inquiry
Bray School LegacyUncover, document, and disseminate the hidden stories of the Bray School students and teacher, and surrounding communities. |
History of African American EducationStudy African Americans’ access to education and the legacies thereof. |
African American CultureExplore the various facets of African American culture and the impact of African American legacy on economic development, higher education, policy implications, and other elements of Williamsburg and William & Mary community life. |
W&M Bray School Lab Oral Histories
The W&M Bray School Lab has been working with members of the descendant communtiy to preserve their stories and histories through the practice of oral history. These oral histories will be made available to the public in 2024. We are pleased to provide a preview of this work. Listen as descendant community members reflect on the legacy and history of the Williamsburg Bray School scholars, discussing their role in the re-discovery of the Williamsburg Bray School.
{{youtube:large:center|jRKKDPao5fk, Previewing reflections on the Williamsburg Bray School through oral histories}}