#United States #New York #ACLS #Summer Institute #Southeast Europe

ACLS Welcomes New Scholars for Summer Institute 2026

The American Council of Learned Societies (ACLS), in collaboration with the Centre for Advanced Study Sofia (CAS), has proudly announced the selection of 14 outstanding scholars for the 2026 Summer Institute for the Study of East Central and Southeastern Europe (SISECSE). This enriching program aims to foster academic collaboration among scholars actively engaged in various fields related to this culturally and historically significant region.

A Unique Opportunity for Scholars

Running for its fourth year, SISECSE offers a prime opportunity for scholars to immerse themselves fully in personalized research and writing. This year, the institute will take place from June 3 to June 19, 2026, hosted by the American University in Bulgaria located in Blagoevgrad. The selected scholars hail from prominent institutions across Eastern Europe and North America, representing a diverse array of disciplines.

Among this year’s participants are experts working on pressing issues such as the preservation of historical architecture in Sofia, the implications of early twentieth-century military occupations in the Balkans, abortion activism in Poland, and community-building endeavors among the Roma population in Southeastern Europe. These varied research topics highlight the institute's dedication to interdisciplinary approaches, fostering valuable discussions and knowledge exchange among its members.

Engaging Discussions and Networking

Throughout the two-week residency, scholars will engage in several group discussions focused on the theme "Autonomy, Institutions, and Transnational Networks." These discussions aim to encourage collaborative insights and provoke critical dialogue shaping future research in key areas of study.

Mark Silver, ACLS Program Officer, emphasized the importance of the Summer Institute as a platform for scholars from different backgrounds to converge, share perspectives, and forge robust professional networks. He stated, "The Summer Institute offers scholars from Eastern Europe and the United States a great opportunity to meet face-to-face, learn from one another's perspectives, develop their networks, and make progress on their own research projects." This initiative is not just a program but a path towards common goals in academia.

Support for Humanistic Scholarship

The Summer Institute is made possible through generous contributions from Carl and Betty Pforzheimer, reflecting ACLS's broader commitment to supporting humanistic scholarship in Eastern Europe. This program builds upon a long history of ACLS initiatives that promote humanistic inquiry and academic collaboration across borders.

Founded a century ago, ACLS represents a federation of 81 scholarly organizations, advocating for a diverse and inclusive academic environment. They acknowledge knowledge as a public good and strive to amplify the voices of scholars across various disciplines. Their collaboration with institutions like CAS is vital in enhancing the scholarly infrastructure for research and scholarship in the humanities and social sciences.

In conclusion, the 2026 Summer Institute for the Study of East Central and Southeastern Europe promises to be a transformative experience for the selected scholars. As they delve into their research with the support of ACLS and CAS, these scholars will not only advance their individual projects but also contribute to the collective understanding of significant regional challenges and developments. The future of research in Southeastern Europe is bound to be enriched by the insights gained during this unique residency program.