Indiana Humanities’ upcoming thematic initiative focuses on American history, civics, and democracy in commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 2026. Over several years, we will design and support humanities programs that help Hoosiers examine America’s founding principles, the history of American democracy, how Americans play a role in our system of government, and how citizens relate to one another to build the civic fabric of our nation.
We work with humanities scholars, experts, elders, and culture-bearers to shape and lead our programs. Humanities scholars bring deep expertise and provide valuable context, and they’re also often skilled at sharing information and unlocking conversation around a big idea or shared text. Further, scholars are good at helping people become comfortable with tension and gray area, with the idea that answers are rarely “yes” or “no” but often more complex than we ever realized.
If this sounds like you, apply today to become a speaker.
About the Speakers Bureau
How it works
After selecting speakers for the bureau, Indiana Humanities publishes a catalog of presenters and talks. While we target the speakers bureau to libraries, schools, churches, civic organizations, and other tax-exempt organizations, any person or group may review the offerings and reach out to the speaker to gauge interest and availability and to plan a program. Speakers may accept and negotiate additional engagements on their own. When you apply, you can suggest a recommended fee for your talk, which can be negotiated with the host sites, along with travel and lodging reimbursement as needed. We currently plan for the speakers bureau to be active from 2025 to 2027.
At a future date, Indiana Humanities hopes to have funding to support paying speaker fees. At that time, our standard honorarium for these engagements is $400, and we ask host sites to cover travel and lodging costs.
How to apply
A committee of staff, board members, and subject area experts will evaluate proposals. Candidates should submit a talk description and biography, resume, or CV for review. We may also ask candidates to provide additional information or have a quick call with staff in order for us to make final decisions. To submit a proposal for the speakers bureau, fill out this form.