(Indianola, MS) – The B.B. King Museum is pleased to welcome Dina Bennett, Ph.D. to head the education and outreach efforts of the Museum. Dr. Bennett received her doctorate degree in Folklore and Ethnomusicology with a minor in African American & African Diaspora Studies from Indiana University in Bloomington. Her recent work experience includes teaching music education at the university level, teaching in public schools, and contributing biographical articles of African American blues musicians to The Grove Dictionary of American Music.
“We are so glad to have Dr. Bennett join our professional staff here at the Museum,” said Dion Brown, executive director. “She brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to our work here. Education has always been at the heart of our mission, and the addition of Dr. Bennett renews this commitment.” Dr. Bennett’s experience in the museum field has been both academic and practical. She did archival work at the Kansas Historical Society, worked in the Archives of African American Music & Culture at Indiana University, and as manager of collections and exhibitions at the American Jazz Museum in Kansas City, Missouri, where she developed exhibits as well as educational and public programs. “My love of the Blues drew me to the B.B. King Museum,” said Bennett. “As an ethnomusicologist–one who studies music and culture–I hope to help enhance the public’s understanding and appreciation of the rich cultural and musical legacy of the Delta and its contribution to the American musical landscape.”
Dr. Bennett recently moved to Indianola from Topeka, Kansas, and she looks forward to becoming a part of the Indianola community and contributing to growth in the Delta.