What do an interactive theater performance and craft workshop in Kansas, a public art and activism party in Washington DC, a hands-on exploration of New Orleans’ funeral traditions, and a literary canoe trip down the Mississippi River all have in common? They are just a few of the events in the exciting lineup for the National Humanities Center’s third annual Being Human Festival (US).
The National Humanities Center (NHC) is pleased to announce the appointment of 29 Fellows for the 2026–27 academic year. These leading scholars will come to the Center from universities and colleges in 15 US states and the District of Columbia, as well as Ghana.
The National Humanities Center (NHC) is pleased to announce the appointment of 40 scholars for the 2026 Select Summer Residency Program, marking the first time NHC summer residents have undergone a competitive application process. These leading humanists will come to the Center from universities and colleges in 19 US states and India.
The National Humanities Center has announced the appointment of Leah Wu Fell as vice president for development, effective February 2, 2026. Prior to joining the Center, Fell served as chief development officer at PBS North Carolina. She has also served in senior fundraising positions at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, the Denver Art Museum, the Wildlife Conservation Society at the Bronx Zoo, and the Brookings Institution.
The National Humanities Center is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Ben Vinson III as its inaugural Presidential Scholar in Residence. The Presidential Scholar in Residence initiative was established by NHC president and director Blair LM Kelley to recognize the accomplishments of distinguished scholars and humanities leaders and invite them to participate in the robust intellectual life of the Center.
Teachers selected from schools in twelve states will work with the Center’s staff to pilot, evaluate, and promote NHC resources and professional development programs for collegiate and pre-collegiate educators.
The National Humanities Center stands firmly in support of the Smithsonian Institution, its administration, and its museum professionals. The Smithsonian must be allowed to fulfill its mission without fear of political backlash or ideological pressure.
The National Humanities Center announces the election of James Rhee as a trustee. Rhee is internationally known for his success as an investor, business leader, and educator. His approach to leadership, centered on a deeply human and dynamic definition of agency, is detailed in his acclaimed and globally best-selling book, Red Helicopter: A Parable for Our Times.
Through its partnership with institutional sponsors, the National Humanities Center delivers a variety of opportunities for humanities faculty and students to grow professionally and personally, sharpen their skills, and connect with others who share their passion for exploring the depths of human experience. This new, curated lineup of professional development sessions is designed to support humanities scholars in their research, teaching, and public engagement efforts.
These are the featured stories from the second issue of the National Humanities Center's digital newsletter Illuminate, published in July 2025.