2017 John Whitmer Historical Association Annual Conference “Restoration Diaspora: All Roads Lead from Nauvoo”

Proposal deadline: April 6, 2017

The program committee wrote in our previous call for papers of the singular significance Nauvoo has for every one of the disparate faith groups that call Nauvoo “home.” So, what fascinates you about Nauvoo? Who were your forebear’s friends, who were their enemies in Nauvoo? Where did they end up when they left Nauvoo and how did they get there? Why did they get there?

However many good ideas you may have, please settle on just one to propose for presentation. In other words, what single question about Nauvoo and its diaspora compels you to keep searching? If you submit more than one proposal, the committee will ask you to choose the one you want to submit. We will not choose for you.

Keep in mind, also, that a Restoration Studies Track will be included in the program with a focus on theology and culture in Community of Christ and the larger Restoration movement. Though you may address current theology, your presentation should be grounded in the intellectual history of the Restoration.

Many of you have written with ideas for papers and we have encouraged you to submit official proposals. Some of you have. Committee members are contacting scholars who have expertise in this era and are encouraging them to submit proposals. You know who you are. Although personally I get frustrated when I have three great choices at any given session, I know that means we have an inspiring conference. So, frustrate and inspire!

Proposals for complete sessions are encouraged, but individual papers, panel discussions, interviews, personal essays, debates, musical presentations and more are welcome.

Proposals should include the following:

  • Title
  • One-hundred word abstract
  • Brief summary of the topic’s relevance to JWHA’s focus
  • List of any audio/visual equipment needs (or specify “no AV needed”)
  • Brief bio with contact information for the proposed presenter(s).

The proposal deadline is April 6, 2017. Presenters will be expected to register, including the payment of registration fees, prior to the conference.

Please submit proposals to: proposals@jwha.info.

We look forward to seeing you all back in Nauvoo!

Sherry Mesle-Morain, on behalf of the Nauvoo Program Committee

Bill Shepard, Co-chair
Scott Esplin, Bill Russell, Mel Johnson, Clare Vlahos, Rachel Killebrew, Barbara Walden