The University of Arkansas – Fort Smith will host Dr. Erin Kimmerle, esteemed forensic anthropologist, artist, and author, for two special guest lectures on Friday, April 19, 2024.

Dr. Kimmerle will share insights from her groundbreaking work investigating unmarked cemeteries, mass graves, crime scenes and even the suspected remains of Amelia Earhart.

"We are so excited for Dr. Kimmerle to come to campus," said Dr. Ann-Gee Lee, professor and assistant chair of the English, Rhetoric and Writing, and Media Communication program at UAFS. "She is amazing and so down-to-earth (pun intended)." 

The first lecture will take place at noon in the UAFS Windgate Art & Design Building, Room 107, followed by an evening talk at 6 p.m. in the Breedlove Auditorium. Both events promise to deliver thought-provoking discussions on forensic anthropology, cold case investigations, and the importance of uncovering historical injustices.

Dr. Kimmerle will also discuss her powerful book, We Carry Their Bones: The Search for Justice at the Dozier School for Boys.

Her research at the Dozier School has received national acclaim for uncovering the dark history of the institution and striving for justice for the victims and their families. Her work emphasizes the critical role of forensic science in addressing past crimes and illuminating the truths buried in history.

"Bringing in her perspectives will add multidimensional layers to the discussions we have been having about The Nickel Boys in our classrooms and in the community," Lee said.  

In 2023, the university welcomed novelist Colson Whitehead as its inaugural Winthrop Rockefeller Distinguished Lecturer, and throughout the spring semester, UAFS composition II classes read his Pulitzer Prize winning novel, The Nickel Boys.

"With We Carry Their Bones, Erin Kimmerle continues to unearth the true story of the Dozier School, a tale more frightening than any fiction. In a corrupt world, her unflinching revelations are as close as we'll come to justice," Whitehead said.

Dr. Kimmerle is also the co-host of the new podcast, Signal 8, which delves into cold case homicides and missing persons, offering listeners a behind-the-scenes view of the challenges in criminal investigations and forensic art.

Attendees will have the opportunity to engage directly with Dr. Kimmerle, including a book signing session for those present in person. For participants unable to attend in person, both talks will be streamed on Zoom.

This event is free and open to the public, but tickets are required.

Friday, April 19, 2024

Noon talk at Windgate Art & Design Building, Room 107

Tickets: https://uafs.universitytickets.com/w/event.aspx?id=1739

Zoom: Register Here

6 p.m. talk at Breedlove Auditorium

Tickets: https://uafs.universitytickets.com/w/event.aspx?id=1740

Zoom: Register Here