ASA History & Heritage Conservation Initiative

Lilly Roberts is a junior at Augustana University, double majoring in History and Government & International Affairs, with a minor in Medical Humanities in Society. Her academic interests lie at the intersection of historical research, policy analysis, and the ethical dimensions of society, making her uniquely equipped to explore and preserve complex narratives.

Lilly is passionate about storytelling, particularly when it comes to uncovering and sharing histories that are often overlooked. Her experience writing her thesis, Barren Plains: The History of Sterilization in South Dakota, sharpened her skills in archival research, critical analysis, and crafting engaging narratives. She also contributed to public history projects like Survival at Sea: Navigating Health on Battleship X, where she learned to translate intricate historical topics into content accessible to diverse audiences.

Lilly’s deep connection to Augustana’s traditions and student culture drives her interest in the ASA History Conservation Fellowship. She sees it as an opportunity to preserve the legacy of student leadership and campus engagement while contributing to the broader narrative of Augustana’s nearly 160-year history. By documenting the stories of student governance and advocacy, Lilly hopes to create a resource that inspires current and future students.

Through this fellowship, Lilly aims to grow as a historian, refining her ability to balance academic rigor with accessible storytelling. She is excited to work on projects that not only conserve Augustana’s rich history but also foster a deeper understanding of the university’s evolving identity. For Lilly, this is more than a scholarly endeavor—it’s a chance to honor the past while shaping the way it is remembered for generations to come.

Amy Kim, a junior majoring in Political Science with minors in Political Philosophy and Medical Humanities at Augustana University, is passionate about historical preservation and student leadership development. Having been actively involved in the Augustana Student Association (ASA) since her freshman year, she has witnessed firsthand the evolution of student governance and its impact on campus life. Through the ASA History and Heritage Conservation Fellowship, Amy seeks to document, archive, and celebrate the rich history of ASA, ensuring that the contributions of past student leaders and major organizational milestones are preserved for future generations.

Amy brings a unique blend of research expertise, leadership experience, and cross-cultural perspectives to this fellowship. She previously collaborated on a research project examining Citi Bank’s relocation to Sioux Falls, where she conducted in-depth historical analysis and helped synthesize findings into a compelling narrative. Her attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to interpret historical sources make her well-equipped for this project. Additionally, growing up in various countries due to her family’s military background has given her a broad, inclusive perspective, allowing her to capture ASA’s history through diverse lenses.

Through this fellowship, Amy hopes to combine her passion for leadership and historical preservation, ensuring that ASA’s legacy is documented and accessible for years to come. Her dedication to storytelling and archival research will play a key role in safeguarding the history of student advocacy, governance, and institutional change at Augustana University.

Mustafa Khan Mumtaz is a freshman at Augustana University, majoring in History and Journalism with minors in Spanish and Northern Plains Studies. He’s deeply passionate about storytelling and preserving history as it truly is—authentic and unbiased. Growing up in Pakistan, where historical narratives are often shaped by those in power, Mustafa developed a strong appreciation for the importance of honest history and its role in shaping better decisions for the future.

He’s excited about the ASA History Conservation Fellowship Program because it offers a chance to explore the legacy of ASA and bring its story to life. Mustafa hopes to dig into archives, uncover untold stories, and connect the past to the present, helping students today learn from the leaders who came before them.

With experience writing for The Friday Times in Pakistan and working on the EDDA yearbook at Augustana, Mustafa has honed his skills in interviewing, storytelling, and creating engaging presentations. He’s also learned to find unique stories, ask thoughtful questions, and turn research into compelling narratives. Through this fellowship, he hopes to sharpen those skills further while contributing something meaningful to the campus community.

For Mustafa, this isn’t just an academic opportunity—it’s a way to connect with Augustana’s rich history, celebrate the legacy of student leadership, and ensure these stories inspire generations to come.