Marvin L. Hicks
Richmond
Summary
Public history and community memory specialist with expertise in digital archiving, oral history collection, and public history programming. Skilled in developing and managing collaborative projects that preserve and amplify underrepresented voices, with a strong background in archival research, digital storytelling, and community engagement. Experienced in building partnerships with academic institutions, cultural organizations, and local stakeholders to create accessible historical resources and impactful public programs. Demonstrated ability to manage archives, curate exhibitions, and design digital platforms that connect communities to their histories.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Community Memory Fellow
Richmond Public Library
07.2024 - Current
- Built partnerships with historians, community members, and organizations to create engaging public history content and events.
- Established a Digital Archive dedicated to preserving underrepresented Richmond histories.
- Collected and curated oral histories for the Monuments Collection documenting the removal of Confederate statues.
- Designed and launched a website chronicling the history of Jackson Ward, combining archival sources with interactive storytelling.
- Partnered with the Richmond Cemetery Collaboratory to safeguard the history of African American burial grounds.
- Expanded and promoted the Memory Lab, providing tools for residents to digitize and preserve personal archives.
- Supported the Richmond Room as a key hub for local historical research and engagement.
Richmond Cemetery Collaboratory Fellow
University of Richmond, VCU & Partner Organizations
08.2025 - Current
- Collaborate with an interdisciplinary team to document African American burial grounds and their histories.
- Conduct primary research using cemetery records, genealogical archives, and oral histories.
- Support community engagement initiatives that connect descendant communities with archival resources.
- Assist with mapping and digitization projects to improve public accessibility to historical data.
- Contribute to public programming highlighting the cultural significance of Richmond’s African American cemeteries.
Library Technician
Richmond Public Library
12.2023 - 07.2024
- Assisted patrons with research, database navigation, and reference inquiries.
- Maintained the Integrated Library System for accurate records of materials and patron data.
- Organized and maintained library collections to enhance accessibility.
- Delivered exceptional patron service both in person and by phone, anticipating and addressing needs.
- Provided support with information technologies and digital literacy.
Legal Assistant
Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox
09.2021 - 10.2022
- Supported the E-Group with preparation of Information Disclosure Statements in compliance with USPTO regulations.
- Conducted legal research for Patent Trial and Appeal Board proceedings.
- Monitored deadlines and maintained electronic client case files.
- Edited and proofread technical and legal documents for accuracy and clarity.
Researcher
University of Virginia
08.2017 - 05.2021
- Conducted literature reviews and prepared technical documentation detailing research findings.
- Transcribed historical documents, including the Papers of George Washington.
- Researched and recognized African American Civil War veterans through genealogical study.
- Presented research findings to academic and public audiences.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - History, French
University of Virginia
01.2021
Diplôme universitaire d’études françaises - French B2 Level Certificate
Université Lumière Lyon II
01.2019
International Baccalaureate Diploma - undefined
Thomas Jefferson High School
01.2017
Skills
- Qualitative research methodologies: data collection, archival analysis, and interpretation
- Public history programming and digital storytelling
- Strong written and verbal communication; experienced in presenting to diverse audiences
- Rapid library and internet research with advanced critical synthesis skills
INVOLVEMENT
- Central Virginia Small Business Development Intern
- Central Virginia
- June 2020 – August 2020
- Supported local entrepreneurs by analyzing business challenges and recommending research-supported strategies.
- Created user personas and proposed solutions based on stakeholder needs.
- Completed certifications in charting, graphic design, and data presentation.
Timeline
Richmond Cemetery Collaboratory Fellow
University of Richmond, VCU & Partner Organizations
08.2025 - Current
Community Memory Fellow
Richmond Public Library
07.2024 - Current
Library Technician
Richmond Public Library
12.2023 - 07.2024
Legal Assistant
Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox
09.2021 - 10.2022
Researcher
University of Virginia
08.2017 - 05.2021
Diplôme universitaire d’études françaises - French B2 Level Certificate
Université Lumière Lyon II
International Baccalaureate Diploma - undefined
Thomas Jefferson High School
Bachelor of Arts - History, French
University of Virginia
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