Sharon Jessé Edwards completed all requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy Degree in History with specializations in US and Public History. Her dissertation was entitled, Educated, Christian and Colored: The Importance of Legacy Institutions and Education in the South, 1890-1920." The PhD degree was conferred upon her at Howard University's 156th Commencement Convocation held Saturday, May 11, 2024, at the Capital One Arena in Washington, DC.
Dr. Edwards was recognized during the Hooding Ceremony, and in the Commencement Convocation as being a member of the Bouchet Graduate Honor Society, graduating with honors. Her dissertation explores the significance of Black educational centers that are no longer in service that continue to meaningfully impact communities. She’s now working on manuscript and curriculum materials to extend her dissertation research.
Dr. Edwards earned her Master of Arts in Teaching History from Tufts University in Medford, MA. She received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in History in 2013 from Spelman College in Atlanta, GA. She is a 2009 graduate of Coldwater High School, and a member of the historic Bates Chapel Christian Methodist Episcopal Church in Coldwater, Miss. where the Rev. Dr. Roderick Lewis is pastor.
Dr. Edwards is the daughter of Dr. Jessie & Mrs. Rosetta White-Edwards, and the sibling of Dr. Jessica Edwards. She’s the granddaughter of the late Mr. John and Rosie B. White and the late Mr. Jessie Partee and Mrs. Lee Anna Edwards.
