What is the NEH Institutes program?
Institutes are one- to four-week professional development programs that convene K-12 educators from across the nation to deepen their understanding of significant topics in the humanities and enrich their capacity for effective scholarship and teaching.
When are Institutes programs held?
Institutes and Landmarks programs are typically held between mid-June to early August each year. Programs may include required online meetings before and/or after in-person activities. Please see the complete list of individual program websites for specific dates and schedules.
Who is eligible to apply?
Participant eligibility is determined by NEH and all professional development programs must adhere to the same eligibility criteria. The current NEH Institutes participant eligibility criteria are available here.
How many programs can I apply to in the same year?
NEH does not restrict the number of programs an individual can apply to each year.
Can I apply if I attended a NEH professional development program in the past?
Yes, individuals who have previously attended a Seminar, Institutes, or Landmarks program and who meet the current participant eligibility criteria can apply to attend an Institutes program that is different from those they previously attended.
Who reviews my application?
Each project team determines who will serve on their application review panel. Decisions are based on NEH established eligibility criteria and qualifications for attending are determined by individual project teams. For Shakespeare and Digital Storytelling, applications are read by members of the project team, who score and discuss each application to select the cohort of Institute fellows.
“Who” is Agnes Scott College?
Considered one of the Seven Sisters of the South, Agnes Scott College is a private women’s liberal arts college in Decatur, Georgia. The college enrolls approximately 1,000 undergraduate and graduate students and is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church.
Agnes Scott College was established in 1889 with a distinctive mission: to educate women for the betterment of their families and the elevation of their region. Today, that mission has evolved into a commitment to educate students from around the world to “think deeply, live honorably and engage the intellectual and social challenges of their times.”
The college was named in honor of Agnes Irvine Scott, a Scots-Irish immigrant who upheld a strong sense of integrity and intellectual curiosity. Her son George Washington Scott was the college’s primary benefactor, and the Rev. Frank Henry Gaines, minister of Decatur Presbyterian Church, was the founding president.
Initially named the Decatur Female Seminary in 1889 and renamed Agnes Scott Institute in 1890, the college was chartered as Agnes Scott College in 1906 and was the first institution of higher education in Georgia to receive regional accreditation.
The college has been recognized as a national leader in innovation and first-year experiences by U.S. News & World Report in its 2026 Best Colleges rankings. The college ranked #1 Most Innovative liberal arts college in the country and No. 2 for First-Year Experiences among all colleges and universities in the country.
To take a virtual walking tour of the campus, click here.
How can I get to the Agnes Scott campus from the Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport?
Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport is the primary international airport serving Atlanta and its surrounding metropolitan area. It is easy to get to Atlanta by plane from practically anywhere in the U.S.
Agnes Scott College is approximately 30 minutes from the airport, if you are traveling by car. The local public transportation system, MARTA, also has a stop in downtown Decatur, a 10-minute walk from Main Hall.
You can find directions and details about getting to the college here.
What is the weather like in Atlanta in June?
Atlanta is a Southern city with very warm summers. You can expect heat. The buildings we will be working in are air conditioned, so you’ll want to bring layers. You may be cool in the classrooms and warm when you venture outside.
Where does the Shakespeare and Digital Storytelling Institute take place?
Fellows who choose to stay on the college campus will be housed in Main Hall. Many of the daily institute activities will take place in Hopkins Hall, just a few steps from Main. Hopkins has recently been renovated. The computer lab where fellows will work on their digital storytelling projects is in McCain, the college’s library.
How much does housing cost, if I choose to stay on campus?
Rooms in Main Hall will be available for single occupancy rental for $60.50 per night. The cost of the room includes basic bedding and a pillow. Fellows are encouraged to bring any bedding they think they might need to be comfortable in a college dorm room.
When will I receive the stipend?
Checks are distributed to fellows at the final institute session.
Note: The NEH has provided a FAQs document that you may find helpful.