Otis Library will host Dr. Jennifer Rycenga, author of Schooling the Nation: The Success of the Canterbury Female Academy, in the library’s Community Room. This free event is open to the public, with copies of the book available for sale and signing afterward.

Founded in 1833 by Prudence Crandall, the Canterbury Academy educated more than two dozen Black women despite facing racism, threats, and legal battles. Dr. Rycenga’s book uncovers the inspiring story of the Academy, highlighting figures like Sarah Harris, the Academy’s first Black student, and Maria Davis, Crandall’s Black housekeeper, shedding light on a significant chapter in Black, women’s, and abolitionist history.

Dr. Jennifer Rycenga, Professor Emerita at San José State University, specializes in the Abolitionist movement, focusing on the overlooked contributions of Black women, white abolitionists, and their networks in the fight against slavery.

Otis Library was designed to accommodate people of all abilities.  To request an accommodation, please contact Julie at jmenders@otislibrarynorwich.org.