Honoring Lincoln University’s Legacy: Alumna Michelle Brooks on Bringing Missouri’s Hidden History to Light

Michelle Brooks, a 2018 graduate of Lincoln University of Missouri, has pursued a new career dedicated to uncovering Missouri’s rich history.

Michelle Brooks, a 2018 graduate of Lincoln University of Missouri, has embarked on a post-graduation journey that combines her interests in history, writing and public speaking. After a 25-year career in newspapers, Brooks transitioned to a role as a research analyst at the Missouri State Archives. At the same time, she continued uncovering lesser-known stories about Missouri’s history — including the rich history of Lincoln University itself.

“Lincoln's story is one of strength, of community and of hope,” Michelle Brooks said. “It’s a story that everyone should know because it’s part of the fabric of being a Missourian.” 

"The Hidden History of Jefferson City," published in 2021. 

Her dedication to sharing these stories has earned her a role as a speaker with the Missouri Humanities Speakers Bureau. As part of this program, she will speak about Lincoln University's founders and its contributions to the Tuskegee Airmen, bringing these important stories to a broader audience.

“Being selected as a humanities speaker is such an honor,” she said. “It’s a great platform to engage with people about history and help them see the relevance of these stories in today’s world.”

From Journalism to Historical Research
Graduating at the age of 45 while balancing full-time work, Brooks’s degree from Lincoln University was a pivotal step in her career reinvention. Leaving her role as editor of The California Democrat, she joined the Missouri State Archives, where she could combine her deep understanding of state government with her love for historical research. 

“Getting the degree was essential for me to take the next step,” Brooks said. “It was a big leap, kind of like starting over as a young person again, but it was necessary for my career shift.”

"Lost Jefferson City," published in 2022.

While at Lincoln, Brooks spearheaded research on Lincoln University's founders, the 62nd and 65th U.S. Colored Troops, as part of her Bachelor of Liberal Studies (BLS) final project. Since her emphasis was in anthropology, she also conducted research on the Don Carlos family for the Don Carlos Historic Archaeology Site. These academic pursuits laid the foundation for her current work, which has since expanded to include writing and public speaking.

While studying Lincoln University's history, Brooks discovered an intriguing mention of a local pilot training program exclusively for Black pilots before World War II. This discovery inspired her to write The Jefferson City Civil Pilots: From Lincoln University to Tuskegee Airmen (2024). 

"The Jefferson City Civil Pilots: From Lincoln University to Tuskegee Airmen," published in 2024. 

Her meticulous approach to research ensures these histories are documented accurately. “I keep my notes in Word documents that are topic-based, and I have learned to commit to citation first,” Brooks said.

Through her books, public talks and ongoing research, Brooks highlights the enduring legacy of Lincoln University and its founders. Her current project explores the 62nd U.S. Colored Troops and their contributions to history.

“The soldiers’ stories of resilience are so important to tell,” she said. “Through their perseverance, they achieved dreams that seemed impossible at the time.”

Inspiring the Next Generation
When asked what advice she would offer to students today, Brooks emphasized the importance of curiosity and embracing new opportunities. 

“Take risks and be open to new opportunities,” she said. “There’s always more to learn, and you never know where your journey will lead if you’re willing to step outside your comfort zone. You don’t have to have all the answers right away—just be open to discovery.”

"Murder & Mayhem Jefferson City," published in 2023.