Ashley Cerku created Memory Lane as part of her dissertation project. She currently is a Doctoral Candidate in Anthropology at Michigan State University, and has received a Master’s degree in Anthropology from Michigan State University in 2023, a Master’s degree in Liberal Studies from Oakland University 2017, and a Bachelor’s degree in English and Writing/Rhetoric from Oakland University in 2013. Her research focuses on historical photography, cultural heritage, community memory, and digital work. It specifically investigates the semiotic landscape of downtown main street and how digital technologies can provide a more immersive and inclusive approach to heritage preservation.