Introducing Kate, The New Campus Archaeologist!

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Photo of me excavating at Morton Village in Illinois.

The purpose behind the Campus Archaeology Program here at MSU is to connect the past to the present in order to inform the future. Archaeology allows us to engage the past so we can understand where we come from. MSU’s past is vibrant, making the archaeology of MSU even more fascinating. As the incoming Campus Archaeologist I look forward to delving into the dynamic history of this great University and gaining an understanding of what it means to be a Spartan today.

I am a born and bred Michigander. I grew up in southern Michigan (Coldwater), earned my undergraduate degree in Anthropology at MSU; received my Master’s from Wayne State University in Detroit; and am back at MSU working on my Ph.D. in Anthropology (archaeology).  I am a Spartan through and through. You will hear me cheering at the top of my lungs every football Saturday and never see me wearing shades of maize and blue.

While I have a broad range of archaeological background, having dug in the Southwest (Arizona and New Mexico), Ecuador, Illinois, and Wisconsin, my true research interests lie in Northern Michigan (for reference, picture me pointing to the tip of my ring finger on my right hand). My research focuses on prehistoric food storage in the Inland Waterway of Northern Michigan.

My third year of graduate studies here at MSU is sure to be exciting. Taking on the role of Campus Archaeologist allows me a fresh perspective on archaeology. This position requires not only the coordination of the spectrum of archaeological excavation (from survey to full-fledged excavations), but also close collaboration with other sectors of MSU, such as the Physical Plant.

The title of Campus Archaeologist leaves big shoes to fill. My goals as Campus Archaeologist are to continue the strong tradition of public outreach and informing the public on MSU’s buried past. Campus Archaeology will give me the opportunity to protect and preserve the legacy of MSU.

 

Author: Kate Frederick



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