Tiffany Momon has been appointed director of the Center for Historic Preservation at Middle Tennessee State University. Dr. Momon comes to her role from the University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee, where she was a tenured associate professor of history. A scholar, curator, and public historian, Dr. Momon focuses her research on the experiences of Black craftspeople and their contributions to the decorative arts, architecture, and material culture of the early American South. Her most recent book is Fighting for Freedom: Black Craftspeople and the Pursuit of Independence (University of North Carolina Press, 2025).
Dr. Momon holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from Tennessee State University, a second bachelor’s degree in African and African American studies from the University of Memphis, and both a master’s degree and a Ph.D. in public history from Middle Tennessee State University.
Shaun Nelms has been selected to serve as interim vice president for engagement and enrichment at the University of Rochester beginning January 1, 2027. A clinical professor in educational leadership, Dr. Nelms currently serves as vice president for community partnerships and special advisor to the president. He also serves as the William & Sheila Konar Director of the Center for Urban Education Success.
Dr. Nelms earned his bachelor’s degree in education from the State University of New York at Fredonia. He holds a master’s degree in educational administration and a doctorate in K-12 school leadership from the University of Rochester.
Carl Allen has been appointed to lead a new initiative to introduce performing arts instruction and experiences at the State University of New York at Old Westbury. He will serve as a full-time professor, initially focusing his efforts on bringing jazz music education and programs to campus. Before his new role, Professor Allen was the William D. and Mary Grant Endowed Professor and director of jazz studies at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. Earlier, he was the artistic director of jazz studies at the Juilliard School in New York City.
Professor Allen received his bachelor’s degree in jazz studies and performance from William Patterson College in New Jersey.
