Lecture on Ancient Graffiti to be Held at Ole Miss

News Summary

Dr. Jackie DiBiasie-Sammons, awarded the 2024-25 Humanities Teacher of the Year, presents a free lecture titled ‘Voices from the Past: Exploring the Humanities Through Ancient Graffiti’ on March 4, 2025, at Ole Miss. This event explores the relevance of ancient graffiti to modern life.

Exciting Lecture in Oxford: Delve into Ancient Graffiti!

OXFORD, MS – Mark your calendars, history lovers! Dr. Jackie DiBiasie-Sammons, a prominent figure at the University of Mississippi, has been named the 2024-25 Humanities Teacher of the Year. This prestigious award comes from the Mississippi Humanities Council in collaboration with the University of Mississippi College of Liberal Arts. Since 1985, this award has celebrated educators who shine in classroom instruction, inspire their students, and show genuine concern for their well-being.

A Star in the Classics Department

Dr. DiBiasie-Sammons is no stranger to accolades. As an associate professor of classics and senior faculty fellow at the Luckyday Residential College, she has made waves in the academic world. Specializing in Roman archaeology and the Latin language, her current fascination lies with ancient graffiti. Yes, you heard it right – graffiti! This overlooked aspect of history offers a window into societal thoughts and emotions from centuries ago.

Don’t Miss Her Lecture!

Mark your calendars for Tuesday, March 4th, 2025, at 5:00 PM when Dr. DiBiasie-Sammons will present her lecture titled “Voices from the Past: Exploring the Humanities Through Ancient Graffiti.” This event, taking place in 209 Bryant Hall Auditorium, will be open for the public to attend free of charge. It promises to be an engaging evening packed with insights and connections between our past and present.

Connecting the Past and Present

In her upcoming lecture, Dr. DiBiasie-Sammons looks to bridge the gap between antiquity and contemporary life. By examining how the voices from the past still resonate today, she hopes to deepen our understanding of the human condition. Her perspective is fresh and enlightening, showcasing how ancient graffiti can relate to modern experiences.

A Supportive Environment

A Rising Star

New Scholar Award in 2020, acknowledging her impressive early work, and has introduced students to the wonders of study abroad programs in beautiful Italy. As the field director of the Ancient Graffiti Project, she thrives on making ancient history come alive for her students.

Innovation in Archaeology

digital technologies for preserving and visualizing ancient messages. Her research has been featured in esteemed circles, including the American Journal of Archaeology and a variety of other professional publications. In fact, her thought-provoking TED Talk in 2022, which focused on the hidden messages found in Pompeii’s ancient graffiti, has garnered attention and praise.

An Ongoing Journey

National Endowment for the Humanities Summer Stipend. Her project investigates the aesthetics and materials used in ancient Roman graffiti, extending our understanding of why these artifacts were created and what they reveal about Roman life.

Noteworthy Recognition

So, whether you’re a student, a history buff, or just curious, you won’t want to miss Dr. DiBiasie-Sammons’s captivating session on ancient graffiti. Bring along your friends and feel free to immerse yourself in the echoes of the past!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Additional Resources

• Smithsonian Magazine: The Unwritten History of Ancient Graffiti
• Wikipedia: Graffiti
• Archaeology Magazine: Graffiti in Ancient Rome
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Graffiti
• The Guardian: Ancient Graffiti Explained