July 25, 2024

In 2017, the Drexel University Archives received a transfer of Dr. Julia Hall’s papers from the University’s Department of Criminology and Justice Studies. Dr. Hall was a professor of sociology, psychology, and criminology at Drexel from 1973 to 2017 and a dedicated criminal justice advocate in Philadelphia.

The extensive collection fills 12 boxes and offers a rare glimpse into the personal and professional life of Dr. Hall. Materials include everything from personal correspondence to teaching materials, research and publications, professional academic and non-academic activities, plaques and awards, tenure materials, professional service materials, and photographs.

Items in the collection also document Dr. Hall’s involvement in criminal justice reform initiatives, including her work as a moderator with the Gray Panthers of Graterford Prison in Montgomery County, where she advocated on behalf of older prisoners.

“She was a very strong advocate for the incarcerated and that is certainly demonstrated in the records, which are filled with narratives and documentation that illustrates her personal advocacy for individuals behind bars,” said Michael Johnson, Jr., PhD, Diversity Resident Librarian, Drexel University Libraries.

While processing the collection for the University Archives, Johnson even discovered an invitation to President Clinton’s inauguration sent to Dr. Hall in 1993.

“[I was] shocked when I came across [the letter],” Johnson said. “[It is] a testament to the length of her career and to her personal investment as a faculty member in the lives of a vulnerable population in our society – such that it reached the attention of presidential candidates!"

One of the most fascinating aspects of Dr. Hall’s collection is the record of her correspondence. These letters are particularly valuable for researchers as they provide insights into Hall's personal relationships, her professional network, and her thoughts on various issues. By studying these and other materials in the collection, scholars can gain a deeper understanding of the social and intellectual context of Hall's era, as well as her influence on and interaction with contemporaries studying and advocating for criminal justice reform.

“As an African American woman in higher education where women and ethnic minorities are often underrepresented, Dr. Hall and her work are crucial to the University’s history,” Johnson added. “It is important that her collection gets the visibility it deserves.” 

Explore the Julia Hall Papers finding aid online to learn more about the items in this unique collection and how they can inspire your research!