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NEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS

The WHA Office often receives notifications about awards, scholarships, fellowships, and events that might be of interest to our members. We are also happy to share the news and accomplishments of individual members and programs.


When our staff receives requests to post news and announcements, you will find them here and on our social media platforms. Please email us if you wish to be included in our news and announcements feed! 

  • Thursday, January 23, 2025 9:38 AM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    Apply Online 

    Curator of Indigenous Collections Job Announcement

    The Montana Historical Society offers a unique workplace for its employees. It’s filled with friendly and creative staff members who work together to offer the public exciting and innovative ways to experience Montana’s history. MTHS has an opening for a full-time Curator of Indigenous Collections position. The ideal candidate will be a positive representative of the Montana Historical Society to the public, be skilled in historical research and an experienced curator, and will embody the MTHS culture of excellence, teamwork, professionalism, and passion for the work that we do.

    The best candidate is a motivated, energetic team member who loves Montana history, enjoys research and advising outside groups on historical topics and materials, embraces the position’s role in writing about this research and history, and is excited to be a part of the Museum Program efforts that support the Montana Heritage Center opening in Fall 2025 and ongoing operations of the State’s Museum.

    Function: The Curatorial Office is one of two departments within the Museum Program of MTH2S. Under the direction of the Curator of Collections, this position shares responsibility for the care, preservation and management of the State’s art and artifact collections. These activities include conducting research, advising and consulting, preparing articles, developing interpretative themes, providing reference assistance, conducting historical research and maintaining historical records. Among other skills needed, excellent writing skills, thoughtfulness and sensitivity to the varying interpretations of history, the ability to apply principles from museum science, interpretive methods and audiences research, and synthesize that content with analysis, selection, and placement of art and artifacts in the physical exhibition spaces is very important to this position. The ideal candidate will also have great time management skills and a welcoming and friendly attitude.

    Other: The Curator of Indigenous Collections/Historian 2 position 2 is 40 hour-a-week position, Monday through Friday.

    Come join us at the MTHS where we work together to share Montana’s stories and inspire exploration!

    Responsibilities include:

    • Conducts historical research, including pre-contact to the recent past, pertaining to the story of Montana, the region, and Indigenous collections.
    • Works closely with Indigenous communities in and around Montana, and with the MTHS Tribal Stakeholders Group, to develop Indigenous collections, create exhibits, and produce scholarly research on Indigenous topics
    • Advises and consults with colleagues regarding issues of historical authenticity of artifacts and traditional customs of a historical period.
    • Prepares articles for scholarly publications, professional papers, interpretive text for exhibits, newspaper articles, press releases, and compilations of interpretive materials that describe the past and trace historical developments pertaining to Montana and the region.
    • Gathers information about historical events by conducting interviews or accessing oral histories.
    • Organizes and develops original interpretive themes, articulates exhibit messages, shapes storylines, selects artifacts for exhibits, and writes interpretive text and identification labels for exhibits and exhibit publications relating to the Society’s Indigenous collections.
    • Provides reference assistance to sister Montana institutions, and the public regarding enquiries about Indigenous objects in the collection. Assists and supervises researchers, MTHS Programs, and support organizations with issues and projects using the collection. Responds to a wide variety of public and professional inquiries by conducting the necessary research and providing information on the state’s collection of historical material, Montana history and material culture. Provides professional assistance to other museums in the state.  
    • Conducts historical research as a basis for the identification, interpretation, preservation and conservation of Indigenous artifacts. Determines relationships among ambiguous, extensive, and diverse historical data from various sources; applies principles and theories from history, museum science, interpretive methods, and audience research; and synthesizes that content and data with analysis, selection, and placement of extant art, artifacts, and various primary sources in the physical exhibition spaces to create new interpretive content for exhibitions.
    • Archives artifacts and pertaining documentation as part of research. Maintains appropriate records to fully document the history and importance of the collection and conducts research to further the understanding and knowledge of the state’s holdings.
    • Coordinates and maintains standard best practice policies and procedures for the use and management of Indigenous collections. Assists in recommending, establishing, and implementing policies, standards, and guidelines regulating the use and management of the museum collection and the Original Governor’s Mansion.
    • Develops planning documents, schedules, and objectives and recommends topics for diverse and multi-faceted temporary, long-term, traveling, and online exhibitions, at the Museum and Original Governor’s Mansion; plays a leading role in the development and production of in-house exhibitions, conducts tours of the collection and presents lectures, programs, and workshops to the public and professional organizations.
    • Writes reports, articles, and creates exhibits on newly discovered findings.
    • Lead NAGPRA-related outreach and communication efforts with Indigenous communities.
    • Remain current on laws, regulations, and best practices regarding Indigenous collections and NAGPRA policies and procedures. Creates and recommends special historical interpretation projects by providing leadership in exhibition development and implementation thereby achieving program goals and objective. Researches and implements aspects of such projects which educate the public and enhance general knowledge through detailed interpretation of Montana’s heritage through art, artifacts, photographs, archival documents, and other resources. Provides informative and engaging public programs to a wide variety of constituents.
    • Develops strategies, schedules, and objectives and budgets for historical projects such as collaboration with Outreach & Education staff in developing and implementing strategies, schedules, budgets, texts, research plans, restoration plans, interpretive plans, and interactive experiences for multi-faceted historical interpretive projects at the Original Governor’s Mansion
     

    Skills:

    • Superb historical research and analysis abilities.
    • Highly proficient in exhibit production techniques.
    • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
    • Effective time management, leadership and organizational skills
    • Skilled at maintaining effective work relationships with employees, other state agencies and the public.
    • Likes to work both independently and as a member of a team. 

    Qualifications:

    Master’s degree in history, public history, museum studies, Indigenous Studies, or, anthropology and a minimum of two years of job-related experience.  An equivalent combination of education or experience will be considered. Have a proven record of research focused on the Indigenous cultures of Montana. Have an understanding of the federal Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act and accompanying regulations

    First review will be on January 13, 2025

     

    Applicant Pool Statement:  If another department vacancy occurs in this job title within six months, the same applicant pool may be used for the selection. Training Assignment:  This agency may use a training assignment. Employees in training assignments may be paid below the base pay established by the agency pay rules. Conditions of the training assignment will be stated in writing at the time of hire.  

    Salary: $27.90 - 27.90  Hourly     

    Telework Eligibility:  Not Telework Eligible 

    Benefits Package Eligibility:  Health Insurance, Paid Leave & Holidays, Retirement Plan      

    Number of Openings:  1 

    Employee Status:  Regular 

    Schedule:  Full-Time 

    Job Type:  Standard 

    Shift:  Day Job 

    Travel:  No  

    Primary Location:  Helena     

    Agency:  Montana Historical Society 

    Union:  Montana Federation of Public Employees  

    Posting Date:  Dec 23, 2024, 2:29:31 PM 

    Closing Date (based on your computer's timezone):  Ongoing 

    Required Application Materials:  Cover Letter, Resume  

    Contact Name:  Carol Loomis  |  Contact Email:  Carol.Loomis@mt.gov  |  Contact Phone:  406-444-0103 The State of Montana has a decentralized human resources (HR) system. Each agency is responsible for its own recruitment and selection. Anyone who needs a reasonable accommodation in the application or hiring process should contact the agency's HR staff identified on the job listing or by dialing the Montana Relay at 711. Montana Job Service Offices also offer services including assistance with submitting an online application.

    State government does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, childbirth or medical conditions related to pregnancy or childbirth, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, marital status, creed, political beliefs or affiliation, veteran status, military service, retaliation, or any other factor not related to merit and qualifications of an employee or applicant.

    Apply Online

  • Thursday, December 19, 2024 1:31 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    The 19th annual Western History Dissertation Workshop will be held May 15-16, 2025, at The Huntington Library in San Marino, California. Five advanced western history Ph.D. students will be selected to present a chapter of their work to a collegial group of 10-12 leading scholars from participating institutions across the United States, listed below. Applicants who are most likely to benefit from this workshop are those who have completed a few chapters of their dissertation and who expect to defend sometime in 2025. Selected participants will share a chapter (of no more than fifty pages) at the workshop and receive feedback from other participants and from senior scholars affiliated with the sponsoring institutions.

    This year’s workshop is hosted by the Huntington-USC Institute on California and the West, the Research Division at The Huntington, and the Autry Museum of the American West. The hosts will pay travel expenses for up to five advanced graduate students writing a dissertation exploring any topic dealing with the history and culture of the American West. The workshop is co-sponsored by the Center for the Study of the Pacific Northwest at the University of Washington; the Center for the Southwest at the University of New Mexico; the University of California-Los Angeles Department of History; the University of California-Davis Department of History; the Center of the American West/University of Colorado Boulder Department of History; the University of Nebraska Department of History; the Clements Center for Southwest Studies at Southern Methodist University; the Pennsylvania State University History Department; and the Center for American History at the University of Kansas.

    To apply, please provide a brief cover letter, a short CV, and a dissertation prospectus/description of not more than two single-spaced pages. Your cover letter should indicate which chapter of your dissertation you intend to circulate for the workshop. Send all items in a single PDF document to Josh Garrett-Davis (jgarrettdavis@huntington.org). Please arrange for your dissertation adviser to send a letter of recommendation via email to Josh Garrett-Davis as well; that letter should address the significance and the status of the dissertation to date.

    Applications are due Friday, January 24, 2025, and participants will be notified of their selection by the end of February. Selected applicants must submit a complete draft of a dissertation chapter for distribution to the group by April 18. Questions about the workshop and/or application process should be directed to Josh Garrett-Davis (jgarrettdavis@huntington.org).


  • Wednesday, December 11, 2024 9:24 AM | Anonymous member (Administrator)
    Position Title Manager of Fellowships and Programs
    Job Description

    The Manager of Fellowships and Programs reports to the Director of the Helmerich Center for American Research. This position is responsible for developing, coordinating, implementing, and evaluating public programs and fellowship initiatives that connect the Center’s mission, strategies, and core ideas to the Gilcrease Museum collections, contemporary culture, and diverse community audiences. Collaborating with staff and key stakeholders within our institution, this role serves as a key point of contact for the Center and provides administrative support for the Director and HCAR/Gilcrease staff.

    Essential Functions (Responsibilities):

    Event Strategy and Execution

    • Under the leadership of the Director, design, plan, promote, and implement academic and public events in collaboration with our key stakeholders
    • Develop an events strategy to enhance the quantity, creativity, and effectiveness of HCAR events and programs
    • Manage an annual cycle of events/programs to enrich the community experience for postdoctoral fellows, visiting researchers, staff, and strengthen relationships with the broader Gilcrease/University of Tulsa community
    • Coordinate monthly seminars, special lectures, fellow talks, and academic programs
    • Organize venues, catering, travel, honoraria, and itineraries for visitors
    • Represent HCAR, Gilcrease Museum, and TU at academic and professional conferences


    Fellowships Support

    • Serve as the primary contact and provide support for residential postdoctoral fellows, visiting short-term fellows, and travel grant recipients
    • Work closely with the Director to develop expanded fellowship offerings and cohort opportunities for visiting fellows
    • Manage non-academic aspects of fellowships, including housing, scheduling, and orientation
    • Administer fellowship application cycles using Interfolio and PeopleAdmin systems, prepare documents for search committees, and respond to applicant inquiries
    • Promote fellowship opportunities through online postings, social media, and at conferences


    Program Development and Evaluation

    • Develop innovative programs that increase attendance, engage community, deepen learning, and generate revenue
    • Work with marketing team and staff to maintain a social media presence for HCAR
    • Identify contemporary cultural threads that align with the Center’s core stories and mission
    • Collaborate with artists, scholars, and guest facilitators to create interdisciplinary and innovative programs
    • Collect, analyze, and evaluate programmatic data to revise strategies and improve outcomes


    Administrative Support

    • Assist the Director in managing calendars and coordinating meetings
    • Monitor the Center’s expenditures and reconcile programming budgets
    • Manage logistical details including catering, supplies, contracts and payments for fellows, grant recipients, and speakers in collaboration with Liaison for Purchasing at Gilcrease Museum
    • Provide administrative assistance on grant projects as assigned by the Director


    Special Job Dimensions:

    · Occasional work on evenings or weekends for special events

    · Occasional travel to academic conferences as an exhibitor

    · Ability to work flexible hours as required for programs


    Required Qualifications

    Knowledge/Skill/Ability

    • Strong organizational and analytical skills
    • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
    • Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite
    • Working knowledge of contemporary communications technology and social media
    • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment
    • High attention to detail and ability to meet deadlines
    • Budgeting, billing, and record-keeping experience
    • Cultural sensitivity and ability to work with diverse audiences
    • Demonstrated creativity in developing new models for programs and visitor engagement
    • Special interest in American history, art history, and Gilcrease collection areas
    • Ability to communicate effectively at all levels of the organization


    Equivalent Education/Experience 

    • Bachelor’s Degree required in Art History, History, Visual Arts, Anthropology, Native American studies or a related field
    • Strong grounding in history, culture, and creative expressions of North America
    • Minimum of 2 years of experience in administrative assistance, program management, or producing public programs in a museum, university, or cultural organization
    Preferred Qualifications

    Multilingual ability, particularly Spanish.

    Advanced degree in Art History, History, Visual Arts, Anthropology, Native American Studies or closely related field.

    Physical Demands

    Minimal physical requirements; standard office environment.

    Posting Detail Information

    Posting Number S909P
    Open Date 11/11/2024
    Close Date
    Open Until Filled Yes
    Special Instructions to Applicants
    Advertising Summary

    EEO Statement

    EEO Statement

    Eeo Statement Summary

    The University of Tulsa seeks to recruit and retain talented students, faculty and staff from diverse backgrounds. The University of Tulsa is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and encourages qualified candidates across all group demographics to apply. The University does not discriminate on the basis of personal status or group characteristic including, but not limited to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, age, sex, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, ancestry, or marital status. The University of Tulsa is an Equal Opportunity Employer including Disability/ Veteran.

    Supplemental Questions

    Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

    Documents Needed To Apply

    Required Documents

    1. Resume
    Optional Documents
    1. Cover Letter
  • Tuesday, December 10, 2024 2:47 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    Dr. Duane Smith, Professor Emeritus of History at Fort Lewis College and longtime WHA member, died on November 26, 2024. 

    Dr. Smith's active involvement with the WHA spanned nearly 50 years, during which he served on numerous committees, presented his work at conferences, and served on both the WHA Council and the Western Historical Quarterly Board of Editors from 1986 to 1988. In 2000, Dr. Smith was honored with Honorary Lifetime Membership by past WHA President Patricia Nelson Limerick. 

    We invite you to read Dr. Smith's obituary to learn more about his life and storied career. Memorial services are scheduled for January 4th, 2025 in Durango, Colorado. 

  • Monday, December 02, 2024 8:23 AM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    The Linda Hall Library is now accepting applications for our 2025-26 fellowship program. These  fellowships provide graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and independent scholars in the  history of science and related humanities fields with financial support to explore the Library’s  outstanding science and engineering collections. Fellows also participate in a dynamic  intellectual community alongside in-house experts and scholars from other Kansas City cultural  and educational institutions. 

    The Linda Hall Library holds nearly half a million monographs and more than 43,000 journal  titles documenting the history of science and technology from the 15th century to the present. Its  collections are exceptionally strong in the engineering disciplines, chemistry, and physics. In  addition, the Library boasts extensive resources related to natural history, astronomy, earth  science, environmental studies, aeronautics, life science, infrastructure studies, mathematics, and  the history of the book. 

    The Library offers residential fellowships to support on-site research in Kansas City, as well  as virtual fellowships for scholars working remotely using resources from the Library’s digital  collections. Applicants may request up to four months of funding at a rate of $3,000 per month  for doctoral students and $4,200 per month for postdoctoral researchers. 

    The Library is also offering several fellowships intended for specific groups of researchers: 

    The National Endowment for the Humanities Fellowship provides nine months of  residential funding ($5,000 per month) to a postdoctoral scholar whose research explores  the intersection of science and the humanities. 

    The History of Science and Medicine Fellowship, offered in partnership with the Clendening History of Medicine Library at the University of Kansas Medical Center,  provides one month of residential funding ($3,000 per month) to a doctoral student whose  research examines the intersecting histories of science and medicine. 

    The Pearson Fellowship in Aerospace History provides up to two months of residential  funding ($4,200 per month) to a postdoctoral scholar studying the history of aviation or  spaceflight. 

    The Presidential Fellowship in Bibliography provides up to four months of residential  funding ($4,200 per month) to a postdoctoral scholar whose research focuses on the study  of books and manuscripts as physical artifacts. 

    The Linda Hall Library is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive research environment  and encourages members of any groups that have traditionally been underrepresented in  academia to apply for fellowship support. 

    Please share this announcement with graduate students, colleagues, or anyone else who might be  interested in the Linda Hall Library’s fellowship program. All application materials are due no  later than January 17, 2025. For further information, visit the Fellowships page on our website or  e-mail fellowships@lindahall.org.

  • Monday, November 25, 2024 12:34 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    Assistant Professor of History at Western Colorado University 

    POSITION: Western Colorado University invites applications for an Assistant Professor of U.S. History.

    We seek an effective teacher-scholar engaged in teaching and research on histories of what is now the Western United States (western Turtle Island/northwestern Abya Yala) and its environment and/or public lands. We particularly welcome applications from scholars whose work focuses on subjects such as critical studies of race, ethnicity, gender, and class; settler colonialism and decolonization; Indigenous knowledge; migration and diaspora; environmental and/or Indigenous policy; and/or marginalized peoples and contested spaces in the American West.

    Teaching is the primary focus of this position, and the faculty member will be responsible for teaching a 4-4 load per year. These will include one or more of the program’s U.S. history survey courses, General Education courses, as well as upper-division U.S. history courses and special topics. Depending on qualifications, the candidate may also have the opportunity to teach in the Environmental and Sustainability program and potentially supervise graduate students and teach in the Masters in Environmental Management program. Interdisciplinary collaboration across the Social Sciences, Humanities and/or with Computer Science is desirable.

    This position should complement our current team who cover African, European, Latin American, and Public History. The History program seeks a colleague who can show evidence of teaching excellence, scholarly productivity, and curriculum vision. Applicants should directly address issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion in research, service, and teaching pedagogy.

    The History program at Western Colorado University is part of the Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences. The program has 3 full-time faculty members and approximately 45 majors following three tracks: Standard History major, Secondary Licensure, and Public History. We also support a number of accelerated master’s programs (Environmental Management and Education). The successful applicant will help to nurture an interdisciplinary culture in the Behavioral & Social Sciences department and will contribute to Western’s mission and strategic plan, collegiality, student mentorship, inclusive and interdisciplinary teaching, creating professional pathways, and growing enrollment.

    QUALIFICATIONS: A Ph.D. or similar terminal degree from a regionally-accredited university is required. A Ph.D. in history is preferred, but candidates with doctorates in American studies, Indigenous/Native American studies, ethnic studies, or similar fields will be considered if their research is primarily historical in nature. Evidence of teaching excellence and a demonstrated ability to work collegially in a student-centered learning environment while building relationships with external constituents thatbenefit student is also expected. Candidates must also be able to use technology in instructional delivery, including ability to teach online and hybrid courses. Collegiality and professional flexibility are characteristic of the department and would be sought in the successful candidate.

    SALARY/BENEFITS: $57,000-$59,000 annualized salary. Western offers an excellent benefits package including shared premiums for a comprehensive health insurance plan, dental insurance, retirement plan, life insurance, and other insurance options. After one year of employment, Western provides free tuition for dependents enrolled full time in undergraduate programs for up to four years. 

    START DATE: August 2025

    APPLICATION: Apply online at www.western.edu/jobs. Required attachments to the application include: letter of application, curriculum vitae, transcripts, teaching evaluations, statement of teaching philosophy, diversity statement, and a reference list with names and contact information of three references.

    Please direct questions to Dr. William Niemi (970-943-3045); email: wniemi@western.edu.

    Screening of applications will begin immediately and application deadline is January 15, 2025.

    Note: If transcripts are required for your application, you may redact information that identifies your age, date of birth, dates of attendance, or graduation from the educational institution. If a degree is required for employment, official transcripts (unopened or delivered directly to HR) are required upon hire; copies/scans submitted during application will not serve the purpose of official transcripts upon hire.

    Additional Information on Western and Gunnison/Crested Butte

    Western Colorado University is a public institution with an enrollment of ~3,700 graduate and undergraduate students, the majority of which reside on the campus and in the community.  With average class sizes of 17 students, faculty and staff share a strong commitment to inclusivity and personalized, immersive education. They are student-oriented, collegial, enthusiastic, and engaged in the campus and community. Western is committed to continual growth in regard to diversity, equity, and inclusivity and promotes participation in DEI initiatives from students, faculty, staff, and the community. Please see our diversity statement, and our DEI Committee charge.

     

    The University is located in Gunnison, Colorado, a rural community 200 miles southwest of Denver and the gateway to Crested Butte, a world class ski community.  K-12 students are served by the award-winning Gunnison Watershed School District. Both communities value the arts, quality of life, community-based wrap around services for children and adults, and continued personal growth and learning opportunities. At an elevation of 7,700 feet in the southern Rocky Mountains, the Gunnison Valley provides exceptional year-round outdoor recreational and cultural opportunities including summer arts and music festivals, mountain biking, skiing, kayak/rafting, rock climbing, hiking and camping… all within minutes of the campus. 

    Visit http://www.western.edu to learn more about the university.

     

    An Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/vets.

  • Monday, November 25, 2024 11:03 AM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    Curator, South Dakota Oral History Center, Assistant Professor of Practice

    Job Posting: University of South Dakota

    OverviewThe University Libraries, of the University of South Dakota (USD), seeks a teacher, scholar and public historian to serve as the Curator of the South Dakota Oral History Center. Through teaching, fieldwork, scholarship and public engagement, the successful candidate will advance the center’s mission of collecting, preserving and sharing oral histories of the people of the Northern Plains. Integral to accomplishing this mission, the curator will collaborate with programs in the University Libraries, specifically Archives and Special Collections and Digital Humanities, as well as departments and programs across campus, especially the departments of History and Native Studies, and the Institute of American Indian Studies. The curator will strive to advance the center’s relationships with tribal communities in South Dakota and the region, elevate the visibility and impact of the center throughout the state, region and nation, and move the center towards greater engagement with the profession of oral history.

    Review of applications begins January 15, 2025 and continue until the position is filled.


    Responsibilities: 

    Teaching:

    • Develops and delivers credit-bearing courses in oral history, oral history orientations and workshops for academic and community audiences, and library and research skills orientations and programming for USD courses and the community.
    • Develops and supervises credit-bearing internships in the field of oral history.

    Scholarship:

    • Designs, leads and executes research projects through the collection, preservation and dissemination of oral histories.
    • Presents and publishes in the field of oral history.
    • Seeks and secures grants to advance a program of scholarship, as well as the preservation of and access to oral histories held by the center.
    • Engages with the discipline and practice of oral history, e.g., ethics, research with tribal communities, copyright and the uses and roles of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence.

    Preservation and Access:

    • Uses national standards, best practices and local policies and procedures to ensure the preservation, organization, transcription, description and digital access to oral histories.
    • Provides research support and assistance to individuals seeking to use oral histories held by the center.

    Service:

    • Collaborates with organizations in South Dakota, the region and nation to develop oral history projects and workshops, as well as serves on committees of the library, and/or the university, and/or professional societies.


    Qualifications:

    Minimum Qualifications include:
    • Ph.D. in History, Native Studies, Anthropology, English or a relevant field within the humanities or social sciences; or dual master degrees—M.A. or M.S. in Oral History with a M.A or M.S. in History, Native Studies, Anthropology, English, Library & Information Science, or another relevant field within the humanities or social sciences.
    • A record of undergraduate and/or graduate teaching in the field of history, or another field of the humanities, or a relevant field in the social sciences.
    • A record of fieldwork in oral history.
    • A record of experience in using descriptive metadata schemas for cataloging oral histories.
    • Demonstrated experience with technologies used in recording, transcribing, editing, digitizing, and cataloging oral histories.
    • Evidence of a strong public service orientation, ability to work independently, project management skills, and strong oral/written communication skills.

    Preferred Qualifications include:
    • A record of undergraduate and/or graduate teaching in the field of oral history, and/or substantially integrating oral history in humanities and/or social sciences courses.
    • A record of scholarship in the field of oral history, including publishing peer-reviewed articles.
    • A record of developing policies and practices for research with marginalized communities.
    • Experience with digital humanities methodologies and tools in one or more of the following areas: textual analysis, mapping, timelines, multimedia exhibits, or podcasting.
    • A record of securing grants and funding for oral history projects and scholarship.
    • A record of managing oral history projects.
    • A record of engaging community audiences through oral history projects.
    • Managing and supervising students, including graduate assistants, and/or staff.

    Position reports to the Dean of the University Libraries.

    To apply, see https://yourfuture.sdbor.edu/postings/41068 and submit a curriculum vitae, cover letter addressing required qualifications, and provide contact information for at least 3 professional references.

    U.S. sponsorship is not available for this position.


    Salary: $70,000–$80,000


    Department Description: Students, families, faculty and scholars from across the nation engage with the oral history collections of the South Dakota Oral History Center https://www.usd.edu/Academics/Libraries/ID-Weeks-Library/South-Dakota-Oral-History-Center, a department of the University Libraries. The center houses over 5,000 recordings, most of which are digitized and document settler colonial and Indigenous experiences on the Northern Plains in the 19th and early 20th centuries; South Dakota’s history, society and culture during the early and mid 20th century; South Dakota’s political history; and university history.


    In 2022, the University of South Dakota renovated and expanded Archives and Special Collections (ASC) and the South Dakota Oral History Center (SDOHC). The SDOHC is co-located with ASC, the University Libraries’ Digital Imaging Lab, a research room that also serves as a teaching and learning space, and ample collection storage and processing spaces. The University Libraries manage an archival collection storage space and processing space at the Preservation Center, an off-site facility shared by the University Libraries and the National Music Museum. In 2023, the University of South Dakota launched a digital humanities initiative, which is led by the Digital Humanities Librarian/Assistant Professor of Practice. The Curator of SDOHC will join a vibrant team of humanities scholars, imaging professionals, and archivists.

    The University Libraries include I.D. Weeks Library and the Wegner Health Sciences Library. The position is based at the I.D. Weeks Library on the University of South Dakota campus in Vermillion, SD. Vermillion is located on the Missouri River and within an hour drive of Sioux Falls – South Dakota’s largest city.


    Contact: Kim Miller

    Program Assistant

    University Libraries

    University of South Dakota

    605-658-3367

    Kim.miller@usd.edu


  • Wednesday, November 20, 2024 11:59 AM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    Dr. W. David Baird, Seaver College Dean Emeritus and Howard A. White Professor Emeritus of History at Pepperdine University, died on November 15, 2024. 

    Dr. Baird's involvement with the WHA began in the 1970s, when he served as a commentator on a panel at the 16th Annual Conference in Denver. He was actively involved in the organization for several decades, lending his time to a number of WHA committees, presenting his work at conferences, and publishing articles in the Western Historical Quarterly. A past WHA President (1989), and member of the WHQ Board of Editors (1980-82), Dr. Baird's passing is a devastating loss for our organization. 

    Please read below a message written by one of Dr. Baird's mentees, Patti Loughlin. Pepperdine University also posted a memorial article that covers Dr. Baird's long career.


    ---------

    With deep sadness and a heavy heart I write to let you know that distinguished historian Dr. W. David Baird, University of Oklahoma alumnus, former Oklahoma Historical Society board member, and Seaver College Dean Emeritus and Howard A. White Professor Emeritus of History at Pepperdine University, passed away on Friday, November 15, 2024.

    David was a mentor to me at Pepperdine and introduced me to the fields of western history, Native history, and Oklahoma history.

    Born in Edmond, Oklahoma, Baird received the A.A. degree from George Washington University in 1959, the B.A. in history and geography from the University of Central Oklahoma in 1961, the M.A. in history and geography from the University of Oklahoma in 1965, and the Ph.D. in history and geography from the University of Oklahoma in 1969.

    Baird held appointments on the history faculty at the University of Arkansas (1968-1978) and Oklahoma State University (1978-1988) before joining the faculty at Seaver College, Pepperdine University, as the Howard A. White Professor of History in 1988. He became Dean of Seaver College in 1998, a position he held until 2008.

    Baird’s scholarly record includes fourteen books, most recently The Quest for Distinction: Pepperdine University in the Twentieth Century (2016) and Churches of Christ in Oklahoma: A History (2020). Baird’s publications in American Indian history include Peter Pitchlynn: Chief of the Choctaws (1972) and The Quapaw Indians: A History of the Downstream People (1980). Baird’s contributions to Oklahoma history include The Story of Oklahoma (1994, 2007, 2020), an award-winning textbook for junior high and high school students, and Oklahoma: A History (2008), for general readers, both coauthored by Danney Goble.

    Baird has served as executive director of the American Historical Association, Pacific Coast Branch (1996-2004), president of the Western History Association (1988-1989), and international president of Phi Alpha Theta (1989-91). When David Baird retired as dean of Seaver College, Pepperdine University created the W. David Baird Distinguished Lecture Series in his honor.

    No public funeral services are planned at this time.


  • Friday, November 15, 2024 8:48 AM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    CFP - Outdoor Recreation History in the North American West Seminar (Aug. 7-8, 2025)

    Call for Papers

    Outdoor Recreation History in the North American West

    Proposal Deadline: 15 January 2025
    Seminar Date: 7-8 August 2025

     [Download CFP here]

    North American West landscapes of mountains, forests, deserts, and rivers have served as sites for survival and work for centuries, but also as a playground. The development and growth of camping, hiking, hunting and fishing, skiing, biking, mountain and rock climbing, river-running, and other activities play key roles in attracting visitors to the region, retaining residents by driving local economies, coloring regional cultures, and shaping how many perceive the region. The viability these activities and the health of their associated outdoor spaces have faced continual challenge and change. Today, these include new technologies that are altering the forms of outdoor recreation and who participates in them, fast-growing recreation and tourism industries that dominate regional economies, increased usage and consumer demands that stress environments and those tasked with managing them, and changing climates. All this makes for uncertain futures and demands fuller historical understanding. New scholarship that acknowledges these issues along with colonial pasts, Indigenous relationships with landscapes, accessibility inequities to BIPOC and marginalized communities, survival of local communities, and other fraught issues can help better inform our present and guide our futures.

    To facilitate these conversations, the Charles Redd Center for Western Studies at Brigham Young University will host a fully funded 2-day seminar on August 7-8, 2025. Selected participants will write and pre-circulate chapter-length pieces (approximately 6,000-8,000 words) before gathering on the BYU campus to workshop them together. These will subsequently be revised and published as an edited collection. Redd Center Associate Director and Professor of History Brenden W. Rensink will serve as seminar organizer and volume editor. Historians Annie Coleman (Notre Dame), Phoebe Young (CU-Boulder), and others will help facilitate small- and large-group workshop sessions. Authors are encouraged to consider diverse voices and perspectives in their work. Senior and junior scholars (including graduate students) are welcomed.

     

    Apply using this link (https://tinyurl.com/outdoorrecreationhistory) by January 15, 2025.

    Contact Brenden W. Rensink at bwrensink@byu.edu if you have questions.

     

    Past edited volumes that have emerged from past Redd Center seminars include: 


  • Thursday, November 14, 2024 10:02 AM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    Assistant Profesor in U.S. History at Utah State University

    Overview

    The Department of History at Utah State University (USU) in Uintah Basin invites applications for a tenure-track, nine-month position at the rank of Assistant Professor in nineteenth or twentieth century United States history, with areas of expertise in Utah history, Indigenous history, religious history, environmental history, and/or history of the American West. The successful applicant will teach our lower-division surveys in American History, our History of Utah course, and upper-division courses in their area(s) of specialization. The department seeks a colleague who can show evidence of teaching excellence and research productivity. Teaching is the primary focus of this position, and the faculty member will be responsible for teaching six courses per year, including courses taught in different modalities (face-to-face, online, and connect). The anticipated start date is August 2025.The department seeks a highly motivated teacher and researcher to join a vibrant community of scholars at our Roosevelt campus.

    Review of applications begins December 7, 2024, and continues until the position is filled.

    Responsibilities

    • Demonstrate excellence in teaching and effectiveness in research 
    • Teach one or more of our lower-division U.S. surveys (HIST 1700, HIST 2700 and HIST 2710) 
    • Contribute to the department’s lower-division, upper-division (including HIST 3850: Utah History), and graduate curricula 
    • Produce high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship 
    • Contribute to service in the Department, College, and University 

    Qualifications

    Minimum Qualifications: 

    • A PhD in U.S. History or related field by July 2025 (ABD will be considered at time of application if degree is completed by July 2025) 
    • Evidence of teaching excellence 
    • Evidence of scholarly productivity 

    Preferred Qualifications:

    • Ability to contribute to other units in the History Department, including the Public History emphasis, the Classics Program, the Religious Studies Program, or the Global Peacebuilding Certificate.  

    Required Documents

    Along with the online application, please attach: 

    1. CV to be uploaded at the beginning of your application in the Candidate Profile under “Resume/CV"
    2. Two syllabi: 1) for any survey course in U.S. History, and 2) for any upper division course in indigenous, religious, environmental or regional/local history to be uploaded at the beginning of your application in the Candidate Profile under “Documents 1-10"
    3. The names and email addresses of three references (your references will be asked to upload a letter of recommendation if your candidacy advances to the next level).
    4. A cover letter that speaks to your experience as a teacher and researcher (to be copied and pasted into a fillable field at the end of the application). 

    The committee may request copies of course evaluations or other teaching materials if your candidacy advances to the interview stage. 

     

    **Document size may not exceed 10 MB.**

    Advertised Salary

    Commensurate with qualifications and experience, plus excellent benefits

    ADA

    Employees typically work indoors and are protected from weather and/or contaminants, but not, necessarily, occasional temperature changes.  

    College/Department Highlights

    The History Department at Utah State includes dynamic teacher-scholars in History, Religious Studies, and Classics as well as undergraduate and master's level students interested in a global field of study. The faculty values high-quality research in keeping with its research mission, but it also places the highest importance on accessible and quality teaching. The department offers majors/minors in history, history teaching, and religious studies. It also offers minors in Latin, Greek, Classical Civilization, and Latin Teaching, and two masters’ program in History and Ancient Languages and Cultures. Faculty in the program are located at the main campus in Logan as well as at locations around the state as part of the university’s statewide mission. For more information on the department, see our website: http://history.usu.edu  

     

    All faculty are part of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, which plays an instrumental role in teaching critical thinking, knowledge-building skills and the ability to pose meaningful questions that advance understanding and knowledge. Students in our college confront the great questions and controversies, learn about the forces that have shaped our world, and develop the skills to tackle its most pressing challenges. Our graduates are creative problem-solvers with a passion for making a difference. The education they receive here prepares them to address the problems of today and to succeed wherever their career path takes them tomorrow. 

    University Highlights

    Founded in 1888, Utah State University is Utah’s premier land-grant, public service university, with a strong commitment to excellence, access, and inclusion, empowering people to lead successful lives of involvement, innovation, and impact. Utah State provides high-quality education to 27,500-plus students locations throughout the state, including at three residential campuses, eight statewide campuses, and 23 education centers. USU Online educates students from all 50 states and 55 countries. For over 25 years, USU Extension has served and engaged Utahns in all of Utah’s counties. As an R1 research institution, Utah State is dedicated to advancing knowledge through research and scholarly activities, providing a high-quality undergraduate and graduate education at an affordable price.

     

    Utah State is committed to cultivating a community of inclusive excellence where all perspectives, values, cultures, and identities are acknowledged, welcomed, and valued. We seek to recruit, hire, and retain people from all walks of life who will champion excellence in education, research, discovery, outreach, and service. We believe that promoting a strong sense of community and belonging empowers and engages all members of USU to thrive and be successful. Forbes recognized our commitment to employees when they named Utah State the best employer in Utah in 2023. Learn more about USU. 

     

    The university provides a Dual Career Assistance Program to support careers for partners who are also seeking employment. Additionally, USU is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability, contact the university’s ADA Coordinator in the Office of Human Resources at (435) 797-0122 or hr@usu.edu. 

     

    About the Region

    U.S. News and World Report ranked Utah first for its strong economy, fiscal stability, education, and health care. Outstanding outdoor recreational opportunities abound throughout the state, including five national parks, 43 state parks and recreation areas, and 15 alpine ski resorts. The home of USU’s main campus, Logan, is a city of 54,000-plus people in a picturesque mountain valley 80 miles north of Salt Lake City. The Logan metro area claimed the top spot in the Milken Institute’s 2022 ranking for best-performing small cities in the nation. 

     

    *updated 04/2024

    Notice of Non-discrimination

    In its programs and activities, including in admissions and employment, Utah State University does not discriminate or tolerate discrimination, including harassment, based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by University policy, Title IX, or any other federal, state, or local law.

    The following individuals have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the application of Title IX and its implementing regulations and/or USU’s non-discrimination policies:

     

    Executive Director of the Office of Equity Matthew Pinner, discrimination@usu.edu, Distance Education Rm. 401, 435-797-1266

    Title IX Coordinator Cody Carmichael, titleix@usu.edu, Distance Education Rm. 404, 435-797-1266

    Mailing address: 5100 Old Main Hill, Logan, UT 84322

    For further information regarding non-discrimination, please visit https://equity.usu.edu/, or contact:

    U.S. Department of Education, Office of Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 800-421-3481, OCR@ed.gov


    If you have any questions, reach out to Amanda Katz.

Western History Association

University of Kansas | History Department

1445 Jayhawk Blvd. | 3650 Wescoe Hall

Lawrence, KS 66045 | 785-864-0860

wha@westernhistory.org