Spotlights
Megan Gragg '23
Employer
Reference Archivist, Kansas Historical Society
1. Tell us about your journey since graduation.
Since graduating, I have continued to build my career in archives
and public history. After earning my Master of Library and Information
Science degree from Wayne State University, I gained experience
through internships and projects at institutions including the Kansas
Historical Society, Watkins Museum of History, and Haskell Indian
Nations University. In April, I began working as a Reference
Archivist, where I assist researchers in locating and accessing
historical records, manuscripts, photographs, maps, and other archival
materials. This role has allowed me to apply my archival training
while helping connect people with the historical resources they need.
I enjoy the challenge of researching collections, answering reference
questions, and making archival materials more accessible to the
public. My journey since graduation has been one of continuous
learning and professional growth. Each experience has reinforced my
passion for archives and preserving history, and I look forward to
continuing to serve researchers and communities through archival work.
2. Share a favorite Grand Valley memory.
My favorite Grand Valley memory is joining Phi Sigma Pi. Through
the organization, I met some of my closest friends, many of whom
remain lifelong friends today. Phi Sigma Pi gave me opportunities to
grow both personally and professionally through service, scholarship,
and leadership. I was fortunate to serve in executive board positions,
which helped me develop leadership skills and build meaningful
connections with other students. The friendships, experiences, and
sense of community I found through Phi Sigma Pi are some of what I
remember most fondly about my time at Grand Valley.
3. What's the best piece of advice you've ever received?
The best piece of advice I've ever received is that it's okay not
to have everything figured out right away. As a student and now as a
professional, I've learned that growth often comes from being willing
to try new things, ask questions, and embrace unexpected
opportunities. This advice encouraged me to pursue experiences outside
my comfort zone, ultimately leading me to a career in archives and
helping me build meaningful relationships along the way.
4. List three words you would use to describe your Grand
Valley experience.
Community, Growth, and Opportunity. Community because of the
friendships and connections I built, especially through Phi Sigma Pi.
Growth because Grand Valley challenged me academically, personally,
and as a leader through my involvement on executive boards and other
campus activities. Opportunity because it opened doors to new
experiences, helped me discover my passion for archives and libraries,
and prepared me for my career after graduation.
5. What difference would you like to make in the world?
I would like to make a difference by helping preserve and share
stories that might otherwise be forgotten. Through my work in
archives, libraries, and historical institutions, I hope to make
history more accessible and ensure that diverse voices and experiences
are documented for future generations. I believe that preserving the
past helps people better understand one another, strengthens
communities, and creates a more informed future.
June 2026
Interest Area(s)
Allied Health Sciences
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