Dr. Gwendolyn Fuller Mukes 

Educator

“Gwen has the ability to capture her audiences’ attention with the crack of the whip when reenacting Harriet Tubman!“ Mary Robillard, retired teacher

Background

Growing up in segregated Oklahoma in the 40s and 50s, Gwen witnessed many forms of discrimination and was aware of atrocities committed to African Americans at a young age. As one of the original Civil Rights’ Sit-Inners in Oklahoma City to desegregate public accommodations (August1958), she, along with the other 13 members of the NAACP Youth Chapter, was thrust into history. This experience began her lifelong quest for equal treatment for all, to learn more about her people’s history and history of other cultures, and to help others to appreciate different cultures in our society.

Having taught 39 years in public schools (Lakeview S.C., Baltimore, Maryland and Adult Education in Prince Georges County), she retired from the Wichita, Kansas, USD 259 school system and began a new career as an assistant professor in the College of Education at Wichita State University, Wichita, Kansas. Gwen has received numerous awards (nationally and locally) for her portrayal of Harriet Tubman and as an educator.

Main Focus

Making history interesting, fun, educational and not boring!

Offerings

In a one-woman show, Gwen portrays historical African American women bringing history to life to all ages. Life isn’t the same after a visit from one of these ladies, some well known and others, not so well known: Harriet Tubman, Conductor on the Underground Railroad; Sojourner Truth, Abolitionist and Suffragette; Mrs. Mary McLeod Bethune, Educator and friend to President Franklin D. and Mrs. Roosevelt; Bessie Coleman, first African American aviator; Rosa Parks, Mother of the Civil Rights Movement, and Stagecoach Mary, Pony Express Rider who never lost her mail. In her presentations, she includes Character Education traits and cultural diversity.  Also, as a storyteller of African folklore, she enjoys telling the Anansi stories and getting her audiences involved as participants.

Availability

            Gwen is available on weekends, beginning on Friday mornings, bright and

early.

Fee: Negotiable

Contact Information: 316.990.0083 or gwendolyn.mukes@wichita.edu