Call for Proposals: 2027 SHAFR Summer Institute 

(The 2027 SHAFR Annual Meeting will take place June 24–26, 2027 in Arlington, VA. The Summer Institute is held prior to the conference and can last anywhere from 3 to 5 days).

About the Summer Institute

The SHAFR Summer Institute is an intensive professional development program designed for graduate students and early-career scholars of U.S. foreign relations. The Institute fosters a collaborative intellectual community while providing participants with advanced training in historical content, methodological approaches, pedagogy, and professional development.

Recent themes have included Writing the History of U.S. Foreign Relations in an Age of Crisis (2025) and Strategic Cultures (2026). Proposals for 2027 should articulate a compelling thematic focus that speaks to current directions in the field.

Host Institution Responsibilities

SHAFR seeks proposals from institutions or consortia able to provide:

• Meeting space: a seminar room for a group of 15 (participants, conveners, guest speakers)
• Accommodations: affordable lodging nearby for participants and invited speakers
• Local Coordination: logistical support, including on-site coordination and assistance with catering and facilities
• Conveners (2): two scholars who will serve as intellectual and organizational leads, responsible for developing the Institute’s theme, recruiting speakers, and shaping the program in consultation with SHAFR leadership.

Financial Expectations

SHAFR support for the Summer Institute is limited to $7,000. Therefore, it seeks proposals that include a viable plan to support the Institute. Competitive proposals will demonstrate the ability to secure funding to cover:

• Meeting space (if not provided in-kind)
• Meals and catering
• Participant and speaker lodging
• Travel support (as feasible)

Proposals should outline a preliminary budget and fundraising strategy for $20,000–30,000. Potential sources may include institutional contributions, external grants, and partnerships with relevant organizations. Proposals should include:

• Institutional overview and rationale for hosting
• Proposed theme and its significance
• Conveners (names, affiliations, brief bios)
• Facilities and lodging plan
• Preliminary budget and funding strategy
• Administrative support available for planning and execution

Submission Deadline and Inquiries

The deadline for submissions is June 5, 2026, which will allow Council to consider them at its June meeting. Proposals and inquiries should be sent to SHAFR deputy director Kaete O’Connell.