AARCH Society Elects New President

The African American Resources Cultural and Heritage (AARCH) Society is pleased to announce the election of Olivia G. White, Ph.D., as the new President of the AARCH Society Board of Directors.

“Olivia has been an important advocate for the AARCH Society for many years,” says Seaven Gordon, Vice President of the Society’s Board of Directors and a founding member. “Most recently Dr. White has served as co-chair of our Fundraising Committee. We are thrilled to have her on our Board and as our President and to gain her vast experience, leadership skills, and deep understanding of the value that organizations like the AARCH Society bring to the community at large.”

Dr. White is the retired vice president for student life and dean of students at Hood College, located in Frederick, Md.  Currently, she serves as the Project Manager for the NCNW Good Health Women’s Immunization Networks (Good Health WINs) and Chair of the Charitable Partners Committee under the National Strategic Partnerships Committee of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. She also contributes to several boards and community-based organizations including the Frederick County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Weinberg Center for the Arts, and the Rotary Club of Carroll Creek. She is an active member of Beltway Church of Christ, serving as the co-chair of the Education Ministry and a teacher.  

“I am truly honored that the Board of Directors of the AARCH Society has elected me as the new President,” Dr. White says. “This is an incredibly exciting time and opportunity to work with the Board members, community partners, and the Society’s many stakeholders to further amplify its mission and to take forward an expanded vision for educating and transforming lives through the African American Heritage Center.” 

As President, Dr. White will lead the AARCH Society’s team that will bring William O. Lee Jr. and David Key’s vision of preserving, sharing and celebrating Frederick County’s rich African American history, heritage and culture to fruition. The grand opening of the Heritage Center at the corner of Carroll and All Saint’s Streets, currently under construction and scheduled to open in 2025, will be a testament to the perseverance and commitment of the visionary founders, Board members, funders, volunteers and community members who have dedicated time, talent and treasure to making this vision a reality.

“I am inspired by the collective wisdom, passion, and dedication of all within the Frederick community, and beyond, who have supported and continue to support AARCH Society,” Dr. White continues. “For me it is truly an honor, privilege, and blessing to serve in this role. We are poised to make a meaningful and lasting impact on Frederick and the state of Maryland. I invite everyone to join me on this incredible journey.”

Please join us in welcoming Dr. White.