AARCH Society Hires Executive Director

Dr. Cheryl R. Gooch to Lead in Newly Created Role

The African American Resources Cultural and Heritage Society is excited to announce that we have hired Cheryl Renée Gooch, Ph.D., as our first-ever Executive Director.

Dr. Gooch is responsible for leading AARCH Society’s programs and events; the successful establishment of the African American Heritage Center currently slated to open in 2024 at the corner of Carroll and All Saints Streets in Frederick’s historic district; and expanding AARCH Society’s partnerships with educational, cultural, and civic organizations.

Dr. Gooch has an extensive background in academia, most recently serving as the Vice President for Academic Affairs at SUNY Schenectady. She has authored scholarly articles and two books: “Hinsonville’s Heroes, Black Civil War Soldiers of Chester County, Pennsylvania” and “On Africa’s Lands: The Forgotten Stories of Two Lincoln-Educated Missionaries in Liberia.”

“We are thrilled to be taking this important step forward with a committed leader experienced in building collaborative community relationships and dynamic cultural programs,” says Protean Gibril, President of the AARCH Society Board of Directors.

A passionate chronicler of the African American experience, her museum work includes developing interpretive themes for the soon-to-be-opened Carter G. Woodson Home National Historic Site. She also served as lead historian and writer for the “Journey to Freedom” exhibition at the Delaware History Museum chronicling the Delawarean Black experience from 1639 to the present.

Dr. Gooch will be a featured speaker at the 2023 Unity Ball, a fundraising event at New Spire Arts on October 28, co-hosted by AARCH Society and Jack and Jill of American Western Maryland Chapter.