Jonathan Green Maritime Cultural Center University of South Carolina Beaufort

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact: Cameron Hall
Email: info@jgmcc.org
Website: http://jgmcc.org

Dr. Kim Cliett Long to Receive National Historian Award from The Black Women’s Agenda, Inc. at Washington, D.C. Symposium

Charleston, SC — Dr. Kim Cliett Long, Project Administrator of the Jonathan Green Maritime Cultural Center at the University of South Carolina Beaufort, will be honored with the Historian Award by The Black Women’s Agenda, Inc. (BWA) during its 48th Annual Symposium Luncheon on Friday, September 26, 2025, at the Marriott Marquis in Washington, D.C. This prestigious award recognizes Dr. Long’s pioneering work in preserving African and African American maritime history and her leadership in cultural education. The award celebrates Dr. Long’s exceptional contributions as an educator, cultural curator, and historian, particularly her groundbreaking efforts to advance awareness of African-descended maritime heritage. Through her scholarship and public history initiatives, she has positioned the Jonathan Green Maritime Cultural Center as a global voice for African maritime heritage, connecting art, history, and education to audiences worldwide. Since its founding in 1977, The Black Women’s Agenda, Inc. has honored extraordinary women whose influence and leadership have shaped education, health, economic development, public service, and social justice. Dr. Long now joins a distinguished roster of past honorees including Dr. Maya Angelou, Dr. Dorothy Height, Shirley Sherrod, Surgeon General Regina Benjamin, Alma Powell, Marian Wright Edelman, Secretary Condoleezza Rice, the Honorable Kamala Harris, Sheila Johnson, and Dr. Johnnetta Betsch Cole. Reflecting on the honor, Dr. Long said, “This award is an affirmation that telling the full story of African-descended maritime communities matters. It is my privilege to help preserve these histories and ensure they remain a living part of our shared heritage.” The Annual Symposium Luncheon, held during the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Annual Legislative Conference, draws more than 1,500 attendees from across the country, including Members of Congress, local and federal officials, business leaders, educators, and community advocates. It serves as a platform to address critical issues impacting African American women and their families, while also celebrating transformative leadership. “The Black Women’s Agenda’s recognition of Dr. Long is a tribute not only to her personal achievements but also to the essential role of cultural history in shaping our collective future,” said Jonathan Green, namesake of the Jonathan Green Maritime Cultural Center. “Her work ensures that the stories of African-descended maritime communities are preserved and amplified for generations to come.”

About The Black Women’s Agenda, Inc.

Founded in 1977, The Black Women’s Agenda, Inc. is dedicated to promoting and securing the well-being of African American women and their families. Through its 24 National Collaborating Organizations, BWA serves millions across the United States with programs focused on education, health, and economic empowerment. Its nationally recognized initiatives have a lasting impact both nationally and globally. For more information, visit www.bwa-inc.org.

About the Jonathan Green Maritime Cultural Center

The Jonathan Green Maritime Cultural Center at the University of South Carolina Beaufort is the first museum in the world dedicated to African and African American maritime art, history, and culture. Founded to preserve and share the stories of African-descended maritime communities, the center offers exhibitions, educational programs, and research initiatives that connect local heritage to global narratives. Its mission is to illuminate the overlooked histories that have shaped port cities and coastal communities worldwide. Learn more at www.jgmcc.org.