open to all UK faculty Now Accepting Applications for the Spring 2026 Bingham Seminar
The Gaines Center for the Humanities is inviting applications from faculty to teach a special humanities-oriented seminar--the Mary C. Bingham Seminar--that includes an immersive travel experience. Course proposals will be accepted from until October 7, 2024. The course will run in the spring 2026 semester.
"The Bingham Seminar is a special opportunity for faculty and students to begin their studies in the classroom, then go out and explore their topic on site,” said Michelle Sizemore, director of the Gaines Center for the Humanities. “This blend of traditional and experiential learning enhances course concepts and makes a lasting impact in students' lives and educations."
Ten or fewer students will be selected for a spot in this 300-level seminar (HMN 300) by way of competitive applications.
The Bingham Seminar provides faculty and students a chance to explore a subject not within the university's regular course offerings, as the Gaines Center provides funding to offset the cost of travel, either in the US or abroad. The Seminar meets according to a regular course pattern during the spring 2026 semester, with the travel portion taking place over spring break, or early in May following finals week.
Previous programs for the Bingham Seminar include:
- 2024: Abigail Firey – The Empire of the Goths
- 2019: Daniel Vivian — Slavery in American Memory
- 2012: Monica Visona — Making American Athens
- 2008: Lisa Broome — Seeking Goya
- 2006: Ron Pen — Voices from Home: Traditional Music and the Formation of Community
- 2004: Douglas Slaymaker — Japan, the Modern, the City
The Gaines Center also offers funding to invite a special Thomas D. Clark lecturer to help further enrich the experience. This lecturer may speak with the course but must also host a lecture that is free and open to the public.
Based on an enrollment of 10 students, the Gaines Center provides the following:
For faculty:
- $4,000 research and study grant
- Up to $2,000 of travel expenses
- Up to $2,000 towards a special Thomas D. Clark Lecturer
For students:
- $1,000 travel scholarship per student
The application can be found here.