Desi L. Campbell, respected historian, published author, and executive director of the Harnett County African American Heritage Center, is set to take the national stage at the 2025 Afro-American Historical and Genealogical Society National Conference in Charleston, South Carolina this October.
Campbell will present the workshop, “Canva for Genealogy: Creating Family Trees and Keepsakes,” showcasing how technology and creativity can come together to preserve African American family histories. Using Canva, a web-based graphic design tool, Campbell has transformed how family stories are shared — creating family tree charts, memorial programs, reunion keepsakes, and visual histories that bring the past to life.
“Genealogy isn’t just about dates and names — it’s about storytelling,” Campbell explained. “When families see their history displayed beautifully, it strengthens pride, identity, and connection across generations.”
In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Campbell will also receive the On-The-Spot Award, given to members whose recent accomplishments significantly impact society’s mission.
A member of the Afro-American Historical Genealogical Society since 2017, Campbell first joined the Charlotte Chapter before founding the Sandhills Chapter in Harnett County, where he served as its inaugural president. Today, he is an active member of the Raleigh Triangle Chapter, under the leadership of Wanda Cox Bailey.
Campbell’s impact extends far beyond chapter leadership. Over the last decade, he has become a sought-after presenter at local, regional and national conferences. His work has been featured on several local media outlets. In 2024, he earned the North Carolina Genealogical Society’s Award for Outstanding Contribution to North Carolina Genealogy, the highest recognition the organization bestows.
With more than 25 published genealogy books and nearly 130 unpublished family histories compiled from across North Carolina, Campbell has preserved invaluable records for future generations. He also maintains an obituary database of more than 8,000 entries from the Carolinas, a vital tool for researchers and families seeking to reconnect with their roots.
In addition to his role as a historian, Campbell has devoted over 20 years to education, serving as a teacher in the Harnett County School System at Lillington-Shawtown Elementary School. His dual passions for education and genealogy have shaped his mission to ensure African American stories are remembered, honored, and celebrated.
“Desi Campbell’s work is a reminder that family history is living history,” said Wanda Cox, the chapter president of AAHGS Raleigh Triangle Chapter. “His ability to merge technology, creativity, and scholarship makes genealogy accessible and exciting for all ages.”
As Campbell prepares to step onto the national stage this fall, his work continues to resonate — bridging past and present, and inspiring future generations to discover their own stories.
The Afro-American Historical and Genealogical Society, Inc. (AAHGS) is the premier national organization dedicated to preserving African American history, genealogy, and culture. With chapters nationwide, the society promotes scholarly research, fosters community engagement and encourages the preservation of family legacies.