Research Symposium

BIO

My name is Jakyah Hayes, and I am a junior at Florida State University, as well as a proud Tallahassee native, born and raised in the heart of the city. Growing up in multicultural environments—from my Muslim godfather's influence to participating in African dance classes and cultural fairs at Hartsfield Elementary—Tallahassee instilled in me a deep sense of curiosity and respect for diversity.
I discovered anthropology at Tallahassee State College, where I earned an Associate Degree in Arts and Science with honors and excelled in the STEM program. Winning first place at the NSF REU (PIACCART) Symposium during the summer of 2024 for my research on storm resilience in underrepresented communities in Tampa Bay heightened my interest in minority community research through anthropology and archaeology.
I am also a beginner Arabic student, aspiring UROP leader, and a henna artist. I often volunteer my henna services at local student and nonprofit organization-led events.
My goal is to become an underwater archaeologist and maritime specialist focusing on shipwreck microbiology. I am committed to being a good steward of the Earth and encouraging others to do the same.

Building the Anthropology Museum Digital Footprint at Florida State University

Abstract

This study emphasizes the methodology and significance of building the foundation of an anthropology museum website. Many studies reveal the significance of anthropology and the impact it plays as a historical study. Through CreateFSU and WordPress, we used trial and error to create the Anthropology Museum Website at Florida State University. The website encompasses the museum classes offered by Dr. Amy Kowal, her biography, and the current and past exhibitions in the Anthropology Department. The purpose of this research is to reach a broader audience of individuals who are interested in museum anthropology, reveal the interdisciplinary process in learning how to create a website while building one, and the importance of digitizing the anthropology department’s history with the hopes to preserve its cultural relevance. This research is ongoing and currently results in the completion of the creation of the museum anthropology website with templates and with Dr. Kowal’s direction access for future students to add material.

Keywords: Anthropology, Museum, Website