Dr. Charles E. Closmann obtained his PhD from the University of Houston in 2002 and is currently an Associate Professor of History at the University of North Florida. His research focuses on the histories of Germany, Europe, and the Environment.

Question: How was public history part of your degree plan? (elective courses, minor or major field of study, special project, class project, or other?)

I took several courses with Dr. Martin Melosi and other faculty in public history.  In my public policy class with Dr. Melosi, my team of graduate students created a narrative history and compilation of sources on the Chiapas Rebellion of the 1990s.  For the same course, I also researched and wrote a memorandum in which I recommended solutions to the environmental challenges facing the Florida Everglades.  Under the supervision of Dr. Robert Fischer in the School of Social Work, I researched the environmental history of Buffalo Bayou, a project that involved an oral history with Terry Hershey, a noted environmentalist in Houston.  

Question: How has working with the Center for Public History or on a public history project helped you in your career and / or current working position?*

Working with the Center for Public History has absolutely benefitted my career.  The CPH exposed me to perspectives and methodologies that I use every semester.  These include the use of policy history, oral history, museum work, and the use of historical research to inform decisions about the environment.  I am currently teaching a senior-level class in which teams of students conduct oral histories and also make recommendations on how to solve environmental justice challenges.

Question:What did you find most meaningful in your experience with public history?*

Continue teaching and research as history faculty at the University of North Florida for the next seven years (until I retire).

Question: Do you have any advice for future public history students?*

Be open minded to the possibilities of public history.  Think about incorporating digital methodologies in your work.  When dealing with the public, be professional, punctual, and open to new perspectives.