The University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) History Student Society invites both traditional and innovative proposals for presentations on any aspect of history for an undergraduate virtual History conference April 17-18, 2026. The top four presentations will share $500 in award money.
Purpose
As the first known conference of its kind to invite both non-traditional and innovative methods of presenting history, our purpose is to:
- share historical research
- connect and build networks
- contribute to and benefit from the scholarly ecosystem
- gain experience presenting and fielding questions in a welcoming, reduced stress environment
- explore new methods of content delivery – Instagram, Blog, Podcast, etc
Who
Open to all undergraduate students with a background in History at any institution of higher education anywhere in the world. 2025 graduates are also welcome if not graduate students.
When
To accommodate as many participants as possible, we are offering two sessions:
- Friday, 17 April 2026 @ 6 – 9 PM Eastern / 7 – 10 AM Saturday Japan & Korea
- Saturday, 18 April 2026 @ 12 – 3 PM Eastern / 6 – 9 PM Central Europe & West Africa
Proposals
The conference committee welcomes proposals for individual papers of 10 minutes each. Multimedia presentations, such as educational videos suited for YouTube or social media, and other creative forms of content delivery are encouraged. Original works of History (senior theses/capstone papers) are particularly welcome. Visual aids, such as a brief slide presentation, are highly recommended for papers. In the spirit of global knowledge production, we will strive for representation of Africa, Asia, Europe, North America, and South America.
In approximately 150 words, propose your idea in an abstract, which is a summary that includes:
- What person (or people), event, object, or idea does your topic include?
- What time frame will be covered?
- What geographical area?
- What other categories (social structures, institutions, organizations, etc.) help establish the boundaries of your project?
- What is your argument/thesis?
- What are some keywords to help with searchability?
- What format will you use to present your findings?
- What sources will you use? (primary source research receives priority)
Proposals should include a 150-word abstract (sample proposal), a 1-page CV or resumé, and a brief bio (how to write a bio). Please indicate date preference. Send proposals by Monday, January 12, 2026, to danielle.skjelver@umgc.edu
