Board Member Interview: Cheli Reutter

​Board member Dr. Cheli Reutter grew up in Detroit but had roots to Cincinnati through her mom. She is currently the Associate Professor-Educator of American Literature and Medical Humanities at the University of Cincinnati. Following are edited excerpts from an interview with Dr. Reutter.
 
When did you first learn about the HBSH? Did you immediately become actively involved or did you slowly integrate yourself into the community?
I first learned about the Harriet Beecher Stowe House during my undergrad at Rice University in Houston in the early 90s. I moved to Cincinnati for my Masters and to be near family. I began setting up tours at the Harriet Beecher Stowe House for my students in my "Reading Cincinnati" class. Barbara Furr helped me to become even more involved with the House. I especially enjoy participating in the Semi-Colon Club and literature talks and discussions.
 
What is one thing you have learned since becoming involved with the Harriet Beecher Stowe House?
I have learned about Isabella Beecher Hooker and her passion for women’s rights. I was surprised that Isabella was more involved with women’s rights than Harriet. "The Cause Dearer to Me Than Any Other in the World": Isabella Beecher Hooker and Suffrage was my favorite exhibit. This exhibit displays not only Isabella’s work for women’s rights but the family drama when she refused to take her brother's side in a scandal.

Dr. Reutter will be giving a lecture in October 2023 on one of Harriet Beecher Stowe's lesser-known novels, The Pearl of Orr's Island. Stay tuned for details!

---