Department Awards
Robert L. Baker Prize*
This prize was established to commemorate the standards of scholarship exemplified by Robert L. Baker, professor of history at the College from 1959-1992. The prize is awarded annually to the student who, in the judgment of the History Department, has submitted the best historical essay during the current calendar year. There are no restrictions on the topics, fields, or eras that essays may treat. Essays may originate in course work or be specially written for this award.
Alan G. Goldsmith Memorial Prize
This award was established by friends in memory of Mr. Goldsmith, class of 1911, a trustee of Kenyon from 1947-1952. This is awarded to the student(s) who, in the judgement of the department's faculty, have accomplished the best work in history in the current school year.
The Curtis A. Seichter Award*
The Classmates and friends of Mr. Seichter, class of 1980, have created an annual award in honor of his memory. The award is given to a student who has demonstrated excellence in the study of history, irrespective of disciplinary field. Nominations for this award are submitted by members of the Kenyon faculty.
*Portfolio typically submitted to the Department of History in January by students who accept faculty nomination. See the department chair for details.
Off-Campus Study
The department believe that study in another country strengthens academic work in history. Students may meet the requirements for the major with courses taken off campus, but only with departmental approval. If you contemplate off-campus study, either in the summer or during the regular academic year, you should consult with your advisor to clarify whether or not you may receive departmental credit for off-campus work. History majors should give serious consideration to foreign-language study. Up to 1/2 unit of advanced foreign-language study may count toward a concentration in the major. Foreign-language competence not only enriches study abroad, it enhances opportunities for historical research at Kenyon.
Research Grants
Thanks to the generosity of former History faculty and alumni, the department has two research grant funds to assist History students with their research projects.
Landon Warner Research Grant
Established in 1990 in memory of Professor of History H. Landon Warner, through gifts from family and friends and a bequest from Professor Warner’s estate. Landon H. Warner Grant provides undergraduate research grants to assist with expenses related to historical research. Applicants must apply in advance for the grant. Although many grants are for amounts from $150-$200, if the research needs are more involved, larger amounts will also be considered.
Lockwood/Murphy Family Fund for History
Established in 2019 by Lynn Lockwood and Barrett Murphy P'20, income from the fund supports meaningful research projects and opportunities for students who are majoring in history, with a preference for Asian history. Awards are made at the discretion of the history department faculty and, to the extent awards involve internships or other experiential learning, in consultation with the Career Development Office or other successor entity.
The PDF fillable research grant application for both funds is available below. Completed applications should be submitted electronically first to advisors for signature, then to the chair of the History Department. They will help you determine which fund best suits your research needs. Applicants will be notified of the status within a few days of submission.