The Museum of African American History, Boston and Nantucket, in collaboration with GBH presents National Geographic Explorer in Residence Tara Roberts for an extraordinary evening as she shares the powerful journey behind her memoir, 'Written in the Waters: A Memoir of History, Home, and Belonging'.

When Tara first encountered a photograph of Black scuba divers exploring slave shipwrecks, she felt an undeniable pull to uncover their stories. That moment launched her on a global quest—she joined the underwater archeology group Diving With A Purpose and started a path of discovery more challenging and personal than she could have ever imagined. From the coasts of Senegal and South Africa to the waters of St. Croix and beyond, she confronted the Middle Passage's harrowing history while uncovering her roots and exploring what it means to belong.

Roberts dives into the depths of history, identity, and belonging. As the first Black female explorer to grace the cover of National Geographic and the 2022 Rolex National Geographic Explorer of the Year, Tara’s work brings history to the surface—both literally and figuratively. Through deeply personal storytelling and historical reflection, she invites audiences to consider the resilience of the human spirit, the significance of remembrance, and the power of discovery.

Her journey also featured in the acclaimed National Geographic podcast Into the Depths, has captivated audiences worldwide. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear Tara’s inspiring story firsthand.

A graduate of Mt. Holyoke College, Tara will receive an honorary doctorate from the college during their 2025 commencement ceremony May 25, 2025.