Nine archivists from around Tennessee were presented with certificates today from Secretary of State Tre Hargett in recognition of their achievements in becoming certified archive managers.

The individuals were presented the certificates today during the 2009 Tennessee Archives Institute held at Fall Creek Falls October 21 - 23. This year marks the 10th year for the institute.

To reach the certified archives manager status, the completion of three years of instruction and training is required.

“The achievements by these nine individuals demonstrate their dedication to obtaining the training that is essential to the challenges of documenting and preserving documents and records that are of great importance and enduring value to our state and its citizens,” said Secretary of State Tre Hargett.

The Tennessee Archives Institute is a two and one-half day series of workshops on the principles and practices of archival management and records preservation. The Institute provides participants with an opportunity to interact and exchange ideas with other archivists and records keepers from around the state. The Institute is intended primarily for county and municipal archivists and records managers. Historians, genealogists, county officials and other individuals who work with historical records also participate.

“Many of the 37 individuals attending this year’s conference are volunteers. Many of them sought out and paid for this training on their own. I applaud them for their willingness to provide free professional services to the county or municipality in which they live.” said Hargett.

To date, 133 individuals from 65 counties have attended the Institute, sponsored by the Tennessee State Library and Archives, a division of the Tennessee Department of State. A total of sixty four individuals have received certification. The nine individuals receiving certificates at this year’s institute are:

Nelle Jo Stakely, Monroe County Archives, Monroe County

Kay Durham Hurt, Sumner County Board of Education, Sumner County

Myra Smith*, Fentress County Archives, Fentress County (*unable to attend)

Kathryn Williams, Fentress County Archives, Fentress County

Janice B. Lee, Fentress County Archives, Fentress County

Austin Bullock, Hickman County Archives, Hickman County

Peggy Morgan, Sumner County Board of Education Archives, Sumner County

Jean Law, Humphreys County Archives, Humphreys County

Ramona Lister, Humphreys County Archives, Humphreys County