05/31/2026
Our May spotlight is a scholar, public historian, and proud fifth-generation Washingtonian whose work bridges museums, history, and lifelong learning. Meet Izetta Autumn Mobley '03!
Izetta grew up here in Washington, DC. Having concentrated in American Civilization (now American Studies), she found that DC offered the ideal backdrop for her field of cultural studies, with its unparalleled concentration of museums, archives, and public history institutions. For Izetta, the city isn't just where she lives; it's both her subject and her workplace.
Professionally, Izetta describes herself first and foremost as a scholar – a title that encompasses a wide-ranging practice of consulting, project management, program development, writing, and public history work. At its core, her mission is to create more spaces for lifelong learning, pursued through reading, writing, organizing, and planning in equal measure.
When she's not working, Izetta is an enthusiastic champion of DC's cultural riches. A self-described lover of the free Smithsonian museums, she sees access to world-class scholarship and creativity as a genuine civic privilege. She is equally devoted to the city's thriving independent bookstore scene, frequenting spots like Loyalty Books, Little District Books, Mahogany Books, and Solid State Books, alongside beloved institutions like Politics & Prose, Kramer's, and Capitol Hill Books. For hidden gems, Izetta points to the Botanical Gardens and the Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens. She also spends time crafting and making, and appreciates the DCPL's maker space and Merry Pin.
