Meet Evan Spencer, New Digital Projects Manager

U T A with star in the center, used when staff photo is unavailable

by Alexandra Pirkle

I would like to introduce Evan Spencer, new Digital Projects Manager for the University of Texas at Arlington Libraries! He comes to us from the South Carolina Department of Archives and History and has more than five years of experience working as a Public Historian.

a white man and woman in nice clothes, standing in front of an exhibit display, which reads, "to preserve us from utter ruine: the revolution of 1719"

Evan Spencer and wife, UTA Libraries Digital Archivist Kathryn Slover, at the opening of an exhibit Spencer curated in 2019.

Alexandra Pirkle (AP): As a way of introducing yourself in this current environment, what piece of media (book/movie/TV show/album/etc.) would you say best represents yourself? Why? 

Evan Spencer (ES): For written works I’d go with Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest, because it never fails to make me crack up. Ernest tries so hard to be serious all the time but everything is so hilarious and ludicrous, which I think sums up life pretty well! As far as movies go, I’m a big Star Wars guy – Let’s go with Rogue One, since the plot revolves around the Imperial Archives at Scarif!

AP: What three words best describe your personal aesthetic (e.g. cozy, eclectic, whimsical, vintage, etc.)? 

ES: Musical, Sports-fanatic, and Spiffy-ish.

AP: Since you are new(ish) to Texas, what Texas-specific things are you most excited to try?

ES: I’ve been to Texas a whole bunch throughout my life, but I’ve never lived here. One thing I’m dying to try (once the pandemic is over!) is a giant corndog from the Texas State Fair. I’ve had state fair food elsewhere… but everyone knows Texas sets the standard. I’m also on the lookout for the best barbecue spots around, so feel free to let me know your favorite!

AP: What makes you most excited to work for UTA Libraries? 

ES: I’m excited about a lot of aspects of my new job, but the most exciting prospect is to collaborate with DC [Digital Creation] and SPCO [Special Collections] to create engaging digital exhibits to highlight our collections and bring them to diverse audiences!

AP: What is something about you that others would be surprised to know?

As a 12 year old, I almost accidentally set a dinner cruise ship on fire…in Australia!

Thank you, Evan! We are excited to have you on board.

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