Dr. Kenvi Phillips has taken on a groundbreaking role as the director of the Barack Obama Presidential Library, a first in the history of presidential libraries.
Unlike traditional presidential libraries, this one is fully digital, making it an innovative and accessible resource for everyone, everywhere. With her extensive background in library and archival management, Phillips is uniquely qualified to lead this ambitious project.
A Visionary Leader for a Digital Future
Phillips officially began her role on June 16, marking a new chapter for the Obama Presidential Library. The Obama Foundation chose to forego a physical building for the library, opting instead to house its records in a digital format. This decision aligns with modern needs for accessibility and preservation, with about 95% of the library’s records already digitized.
As the first director of this entirely digital library, Phillips is responsible for overseeing all programs and activities. Her leadership is expected to set a precedent for future digital archives, blending traditional archival expertise with cutting-edge technology.
A Career Rich in Archival Excellence
Phillips’ appointment as director is backed by over two decades of experience in library and archival management. She is a two-time graduate of Howard University and has made significant contributions to the field, particularly in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Her past roles include serving as the director of DEI at Brown University Library and leading the Moorland-Spingarn Research Center at Howard University, which holds the largest collection of resources on the global Black diaspora.
Phillips’ career has been marked by her commitment to preserving and promoting Black history and culture. Her expertise in managing large archival projects and her passion for public history make her an ideal choice to lead the Obama Presidential Library into a new era.
Leadership and Vision Recognized by Experts
Dr. Colleen Shogan, Archivist of the United States, expressed her enthusiasm for Phillips’ appointment. In a press release, Shogan praised Phillips’ extensive experience and passion for public history, noting that she would be an excellent steward for the library’s collections and public engagement efforts. Shogan emphasized the significance of Phillips’ role in shaping how future generations will access and engage with the stories and decisions that shaped the nation.
Valeria Jarrett, CEO of the Obama Foundation, also highlighted Phillips’ strong background in archives and collections. Jarrett noted that Phillips’ expertise would ensure that the digitized records of the Obama Presidential Library become a valuable resource for historians, researchers, educators, and students worldwide.
Promoting Obama’s Legacy through Innovation
In her new role, Phillips will not only manage the digital archives but also help promote Barack Obama’s legacy. Her leadership will be crucial in making these records accessible to a global audience and ensuring that the stories within them continue to inspire future generations. The digital format of the library offers unprecedented opportunities for engagement, allowing users from around the world to access the materials online.
The Obama Foundation plans to complement the digital library with the Obama Presidential Museum, set to open in Spring 2026 on the South Side of Chicago. This museum will showcase artifacts from the Obama era, providing a physical space for visitors to explore the history and impact of Obama’s presidency.
