Indiana students will not lose access to the prized National History Day (NHD) competition after the Indiana Historical Society abruptly ended its sponsorship in July. Indiana Humanities announced Thursday that it will serve as the new state affiliate for the nationwide academic program, which challenges middle‑ and high‑school students to conduct original historical research and present their findings.
Why the change matters for Indiana families
National History Day offers students essential life‑skill development—critical thinking, research, public speaking, and teamwork—that benefits them long after graduation. “We felt it was vital to keep this opportunity available for Indiana’s youth,” said Megan Telligman, director of programs at Indiana Humanities. “Our experience facilitating conversations about history positions us well to support students, teachers, and volunteers who make NHD possible.”
Background on the sponsorship shift
The Indiana Historical Society terminated its partnership with NHD amid a broader round of budget cuts and layoffs. The society laid off 11 staff members from its exhibits, education, and library divisions on the same day it withdrew support. Those cuts followed a 2025 state budget agreement that transferred ownership of the land beneath the society’s Indianapolis headquarters to the organization while ending roughly $1 million in annual state aid for maintenance and operations. Society officials denied that the funding loss drove the layoffs or the NHD exit, describing the moves as part of an internal restructuring.
What Indiana Humanities brings to the program
Indiana Humanities, a nonprofit dedicated to fostering public engagement with the humanities, will now manage the state‑level NHD activities. The organization will provide teachers with curriculum materials, training, and other support, while continuing to offer students the chance to submit documentaries, exhibits, papers, performances, or websites for local, regional, state, and national judging.
National History Day Executive Director Cathy Gorn praised the partnership, stating, “We are grateful to partner with Indiana Humanities to ensure Indiana students and educators have continued access to the National History Day program in their state. It is uplifting to see the Indiana historical community unite to support this cause.”
Looking ahead
The 2026‑27 contest season will roll out as details become available. With Indiana Humanities at the helm, organizers anticipate the program will not only maintain its existing reach but also explore opportunities for growth and deeper community involvement across the state.
Original reporting: Mirror Indy — read the source article.
