Gannon University
NeMLA's 57th Annual Convention
March 5-8, 2026
Pittsburgh, PA
Hotel & Convention Site: Wyndham Grand Pittsburgh Downtown
This year's keyword is (Re)generation, which invokes positivity, energy, and engagement. Think of regeneration in the sense of bringing forth
not the original but a new entity that is more powerful, vigorous, efficient, and healthier. Understood in these terms, the health of the humanities
depends on a continuous regenerative process that partakes in the creation of new forms of scholarship, both empirical and philosophical, and is open to inclusive debate,
restorative justice, and political empowerment.
Under the theme of (Re)generation, we welcome scholarship engaging in explorations of our society, interdisciplinary elaborations of cultures and cultural legacies,
as well as the re-examination of our histories. We are optimistic that our collaborative effort and commitment to the humanities will help us better understand
the present crises and move us into a period of sustainable and equitable regeneration.
General Guidelines
Submissions to the convention occur in two stages, explained below. There are four basic session types to choose from (panel, roundtable, seminar, creative).
- Members may present on up to two sessions (as of 2025-2026, these can be the same type or different types).
- Members cannot present the same abstract twice.
- Learn more about Chair Guidelines
- Learn more about Presenter Policies
- The deadline for Conference Registration is December 9.
Stage 1: Session Proposals (Deadline May 15)
To submit a session proposal, you must be a NeMLA member. If you participated in the previous convention, you are already a member. (Create an account and purchase a membership.)
The session proposals are vetted and either accepted or declined by the organizing committee. Each session proposal must include:
- A title of no more than 80 characters
- A chosen session format (panel, roundtable, seminar, creative, or workshop)
- A primary subject area and an optional secondary subject area (see our Areas of Inquiry)
- An abstract of 200 to 300 words
- A shorter one- to two-sentence description to appear in the online call for papers at CFP List and in the NeMLA Summer Newsletter.
Stage 2: Individual Paper Abstracts (June 30 - September 30)
Anyone may submit an individual abstract to a particular session. Abstracts are vetted by the session chairs. Membership is not required to submit an abstract, but if your abstract is accepted and you want to participate, you must A) become a member, and then B) register for the convention.
Submissions of paper abstracts are accepted from June 30 through September 30, and chairs will confirm the acceptance of abstracts by October 16. Once notified, please confirm your participation with chairs by accepting their invitations.
Each abstract submission must include:
- A title of no more than 80 characters
- An abstract of 200 to 300 words
- A brief bio
- Media needs (We provide a projector and screen and a limited number of external speakers. Bring your own laptop.)