Dr. Phebe Hayes has been named the recipient of the 2023 James William Rivers Prize in Louisiana Studies, the University of Louisiana at Lafayette’s Center for Louisiana Studies has announced.
Hayes is the former dean of University College. She earned the James William Rivers Prize in Louisiana Studies for her work as a public historian and community leader, according to a press release from the Center for Louisiana Studies. The Rivers Prize honors extraordinary commitment and excellence in the exploration and dissemination of the state’s history, heritage and culture.
The center highlighted Hayes’ efforts to further the study of African American history in south Louisiana, particularly her work as founder of the Iberia African American Historical Society. Her leadership with the society has been integral in informing and broadening the understanding of African American contributions in the parish, according to Dr. Joshua Cafferty, director of the Center for Louisiana Studies.
Caffery stated in the release: "Dr. Hayes is a dynamo and an inspiration to us all. Despite being 'retired,' she has, in a relatively short period of time, established an important historical society, launched an academic journal, built a research center, written books, established historical markers, and much more. With courage, patience and wisdom, she has brought people together from inside and outside the academy, and from differing political and cultural allegiances, to explore a more complete history of the region."
Her work with the Iberia African American Historical Society has resulted in the creation of the society’s Center for Research and Learning – a hub for scholars, students and the public to engage in a comprehensive exploration of the African American experience in Louisiana. Other achievements include formation of the society’s journal, and establishment of a digital archive that ensures valuable historical resources are preserved for future generations.
The Center for Louisiana Studies is a hub for research, interdisciplinary scholarship and community engagement that “aims to foster a deeper understanding of the complex strands that shape Louisiana's past and present,” according to the release.
Established in 1973, it is also UL Lafayette’s oldest research center. Its research division houses the Archive of Cajun and Creole Folklore, the largest collection of audiovisual materials related to the traditional cultures of southwestern Louisiana. The center also oversees the University of Louisiana at Lafayette Press.
Learn more about Hayes and her work here. Learn more about the Center for Louisiana Studies here.
Photo caption: UL Lafayette’s Center for Louisiana Studies has honored Dr. Phebe Hayes with the James William Rivers Prize in Louisiana Studies for her work as a public historian and community leader. Submitted photo