Cataloging the Culture

Chris Wallace is a multifaceted individual whose life journey is marked by a profound commitment to education, mentorship, and community service. Born and raised in Springfield, Ohio, Chris's passion for making a difference in the lives of others has been evident throughout his career. He obtained a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies at the University of Toledo and later attended Ohio University, where he earned a Master of Science in Athletic Administration. From his early days as a Certified Substitute Teacher at Springfield CitySchools to his current role as Mentor Supervisor, Chris has always sought to empower students and foster a positive learning environment. At Springfield City Schools, he has played a pivotal role in managing programs like YOUMedia and Makerspace, providing students with enriching after-school opportunities. In addition to his work in education, Chris has been deeply involved in community organizations. As President of the Springfield chapter of My Brother's Keeper, he has worked tirelessly to mentor young people and compile data to support the program's initiatives. Chris's leadership and dedication have made a lasting impact on the lives of countless individuals in his community. Chris is actively involved in various community boards, including the Clark County Leadership Board, the City of Springfield Zoning Board, and the Clark County Library Board where he currently serves as the secretary. Chris Wallace's story is one of dedication, passion, and service. The “Cataloging the Culture” podcast is a groundbreaking platform that amplifies the voices and stories of Black men working in libraries across the nation—through a monthly series. Hosted by Dr. Karlos L. Marshall of the Dayton Metro Library, each monthly episode delves into their unique journeys, from discovering the profession to navigating challenges, and celebrating successes in a field where they remain underrepresented. https://www.daytonmetrolibrary.org/catalogingculture/

Henry (Hank) L. Benton III was born and raised in Dayton, Ohio. Dr. Benton earned his BA in Psychology from Ashland University, where he attended on a football scholarship. He earned his MS and PhD in Counseling Psychology from Tennessee State University. Dr. Benton currently is a on the sport psychology staff at the University of Notre Dame, serving the student athletes to help enhance their mental health and mental performance. His continuous goal as an author, is to promote Black joy through literature.The “Cataloging the Culture” podcast is a groundbreaking platform that amplifies the voices and stories of Black men working in libraries across the nation—through a monthly series. Hosted by Dr. Karlos L. Marshall of the Dayton Metro Library, each monthly episode delves into their unique journeys, from discovering the profession to navigating challenges, and celebrating successes in a field where they remain underrepresented.https://www.daytonmetrolibrary.org/catalogingculture/

Sammie Johnson is a dedicated library leader, educator, and advocate for equity in higher education. He currently serves as Director of Library Services at Wilberforce University, where he is committed to creating inclusive, innovative spaces that support student success. With a background in Social Work and a Master of Library Science from Texas Woman’s University, Sammie brings a unique blend of leadership, community engagement, and strategic vision to his work. Passionate about mentoring and uplifting underrepresented voices, Sammie is especially focused on the experiences of Black professionals navigating librarianship in predominantly White institutions.The “Cataloging the Culture” podcast is a groundbreaking platform that amplifies the voices and stories of Black men working in libraries across the nation—through a monthly series. Hosted by Dr. Karlos L. Marshall of the Dayton Metro Library, each monthly episode delves into their unique journeys, from discovering the profession to navigating challenges, and celebrating successes in a field where they remain underrepresented. https://www.daytonmetrolibrary.org/catalogingculture/

W. Tali Hairston, Ph.D. was appointed to the Library Board by Mayor Jenny Durkan in March 2020 and reappointed by Mayor Harrell in May 2023. He directs the Nehemiah Initiative and is the principal researcher and owner of Equitable Development LLC, an education research and community development firm. Dr. Hairston is a published researcher and co-principal investigator for university physics and equity research work under multiple National Science Foundation awards. He is also a recognized scholar on faith, race, liberation, and international community development. Nationally and internationally, Dr. Hairston serves executive leaders, municipalities, non-profits, denominations, schools, universities, and for-profits, including projects in Colombia, Cambodia, South Africa, Jamaica, and Vietnam. He was awarded the Jurisprudence Champion Award – Section on Public Law and Administration (2016) for contributions to the practice of public law and administration and awarded the Franklin High School Public Service Academy “Spirit of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Service Award” (January 2017). The “Cataloging the Culture” podcast is a groundbreaking platform that amplifies the voices and stories of Black men working in libraries across the nation—through a monthly series. Hosted by Dr. Karlos L. Marshall of the Dayton Metro Library, each monthly episode delves into their unique journeys, from discovering the profession to navigating challenges, and celebrating successes in a field where they remain underrepresented. https://www.daytonmetrolibrary.org/catalogingculture/

Dr. Anthony Wilson is the Chief Operating Officer for the Columbus Metropolitan Library and current Council Member At-Large for Grove City Council. Prior to joining the library he was Assistant Chief of Police with the Westerville, Ohio Division of Police. Before working at Westerville, Anthony worked for the Columbus Division of Police for 25 years. A military veteran, Anthony earned a Bachelor’s degree from Ohio Christian University, a Master’s degree from Liberty University, and a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. He also serves on the board of directors for Special Olympics Ohio.The “Cataloging the Culture” podcast is a groundbreaking platform that amplifies the voices and stories of Black men working in libraries across the nation—through a monthly series. Hosted by Dr. Karlos L. Marshall of the Dayton Metro Library, each monthly episode delves into their unique journeys, from discovering the profession to navigating challenges, and celebrating successes in a field where they remain underrepresented.https://www.daytonmetrolibrary.org/catalogingculture/

In our first episode, Dr. Marshall interviews Bradley Kuykendall, a dynamic library leader with roots in HBCU academia and a mission to serve community with purpose. As a Floating Branch Manager at Dayton Metro Library, he brings bold energy to library innovation, equity, and mentorship. He’s a proud ALA Councilor-at-Large, OLC Membership Chair, and BCALA LevelUp mentor—pushing the profession forward with style and strategy. Whether he’s managing teams, empowering youth, or shaping library policy, Bradley keeps it real and community-focused.