Elizabeth Schmidt is a Public History Master’s student at Loyola University Chicago. Schmidt received her bachelor’s degree in Public History and Religious Studies from the University of Wisconsin: Eau Claire in 2018. Schmidt worked closely with the Sounds of Eau Claire project, which seeks to document and preserve the rich and complex music history of Eau Claire, Wisconsin.  Working through a collaborative process with the community, this project is preserving this important history that could be lost in another generation. Schmidt conducted community curation events so the individuals could bring in artifacts significant to the music history of Eau Claire.  Schmidt photographed the artifacts to preserve history and would record the stories to ensure oral histories are kept.  This gathered information was used to create a digital archive and exhibit space.

Schmidt also contributed to the Making Meaning Project which partnered with historical institutions to create new exhibits for their gallery space. Schmidt creatively used everyday historical objects that may never be featured in an exhibit to tell the powerful story of oppression in our society.

Schmidt assisted Dr. Nickerson with compiling and organizing the roles and backgrounds of the individuals involved with the Camden draft board raid. Schmidt also contributed to the Suffrage 2020 Illinois blog, writing about the Women’s Christian Temperance Union’s Home Protection Ballot and its early contribution to the women’s suffrage movement. Schmidt continued her research into the Temperance union in various projects.  Schmidt is currently working with the Francis Willard House in Evanston, IL to develop programing about the impact and involvement of women of color in the Women’s Christian Temperance Union.

Schmidt is an active member of Loyola University Chicago’s History Graduate Student Association where she serves on the executive board as the Public History Chair.

Schmidt aspires to work in exhibit development upon graduation in the Spring of 2021. Her research interests include Public History, Oral History, religion, and the temperance movement.

In her spare time, Schmidt enjoys creating nail art, looking after her numerous houseplants, and spending time with her friends and family.