Mechelle L. Kerns-Nocerito (Dr. Kerns) has many years experience as a Historical Archaeologist specializing in the colonial Chesapeake.  Her academic background consists of a BA (1996) in Ancient Studies and an MA (1999) in Historical Studies both from the University of Maryland Baltimore County. 

            A native of Maryland Mechelle decided to see the world for her Ph.D. work and attended the University of St Andrews in Scotland (History and Maritime Studies) conducting dissertation research in London, Edinburgh, Glasgow as well as Washington, DC and Annapolis.  She graduated with a Ph.D. in history in 2004. 

            Her research interests include Women's Studies, Colonial Lifeways, Colonial Maritime Trade, Colonial Crime and Punishment and Historical Archaeology.  She also has training and experience in underwater archaeology and enjoys SCUBA diving for both work and pleasure.  She lives in Bowie, Maryland with her son Ben and her (Go ARMY!) husband Frank.