Nicodemus Historical Society
NICODEMUS — The Nicodemus Historical Society is proud to announce recent leadership and staffing updates as part of its continued efforts to preserve and uplift the legacy of one of the nation’s most historically significant Black town established during the Reconstruction era.
Dr. Ashley C. Adams now serves as president of the Nicodemus Historical Society Board.
A Nicodemus descendant and nationally respected public policy scholar, Adams brings over a decade of research and leadership experience in African American genealogy, descendant engagement, and reparative preservation planning. She previously served as board secretary beginning in 2016.
Her long-standing research on Nicodemus has produced several scholarly publications, and her forthcoming manuscript, Advancing Descendant Engagement in Nicodemus, Kansas: A Reparative Approach to Preservation and Stewardship, builds on her commitment to community-led preservation, healing, and education.
As part of its recent organizational restructuring, the Society also announces that Donna Rae Pearson is no longer serving in the role of Executive Director. The board thanks Ms. Pearson for her time with the organization and wishes her well in her future endeavors.
To support daily operations and long-term development, the Society has also welcomed two new team members:
Marilyn Gray, a Nicodemus descendant and retired administrator, has joined as the office manager. With years of experience supporting the Society’s work, Gray brings valuable organizational knowledge and deep community roots to her role.
She currently provides part-time support in the Nicodemus Historical Society Museum and assists with hospitality at the Nicodemus National Historic Site visitor center. Her presence provides additional interpretive support for visitors and strengthens the organization’s commitment to descendant-led engagement.
Jessica Wright also joins as the Society’s new fundraising associate. A nationally recognized grant strategist, philanthropy consultant, and program analyst, Wright brings over 24 years of experience in nonprofit development, government contracting, and strategic planning.
She has helped secure over $7.5 million in funding for grassroots and national initiatives focused on education, housing, and social justice. Her role at the Historical Society includes advancing fundraising, building partnerships, and supporting sustainable preservation efforts.
These new appointments reflect the Society’s renewed commitment to descendant leadership, strategic growth, and cultural preservation.
Together with the Society’s Board of Directors, this team will continue the important work of safeguarding the historical legacy of Nicodemus and promoting a sustainable future for the community and its preservation efforts.