Spring Break in the South Phoenix Archives

March 2026

Over spring break, the South Phoenix Oral History Project hosted “Spring Break in the Archives.” Students conducted research and processed materials in the new Links, Phoenix Chapter Collection housed at South Mountain Community College. During Spring Break in the Archives, students: 

• Digitized photos from Links events 1950s-1980s for eventual public access
• Compiled a media file of exclusively-held paintings by award-winning Phoenix artist Clendolyn Corbin 
• Analyzed personal photographs from 1930s-1950s previously belonging to Phoenix founder Winstona Hackett Aldridge

When asked about their archiving experience, students said:

The source that I found most interesting was the image of Winstona Aldridge. She is sitting in a classroom dressed neatly and confidently. She is in front of a chalkboard which shows her commitment to education. This image is significant because it was taken at a time when opportunities for women and especially women of color were limited. Her presence in the classroom shows the determination and leadership. It reminds us that local figures like Winstona Aldridge played an important role in shaping education and inspiring future generations.
~Student researcher, name withheld

Studying local history is important because it preserves the stories of real people who lived and worked in the past… In the picture “Party Time,” we can see young Black women and men were enjoying themselves after the Debutant ceremony. This challenges the idea that Black people don’t have a strong history in Phoenix.
~Student researcher Evelyn Rodriguez

What stood out to me the most was the collection of paintings by Clendolyn Corbin, because they were all very unique, and she is an artist I would have never heard without working in this archive. Specifically, I liked the painting “Five loaves and two fishes” because the colors are very soothing and I think the subject matter is interesting.
~ Student researcher Caleia Worthen

These and other student archiving efforts will contribute to future research and public access as events, public openings, and special exhibits are currently planned for the 2026-2027 school year.