The Abraham Lincoln Institute (ALI) and the Abraham Lincoln Association (ALA) invite nominations and submissions for the 2027 Hay-Nicolay Dissertation Prize, which includes a $1,000 honorarium.

Doctoral dissertations eligible for consideration must have been completed between 2024 and 2026. Preference will be given to submissions that directly focus on Abraham Lincoln, but studies that explore his historical, political, cultural, and social legacy in broader Civil War contexts—such as emancipation, Reconstruction, or his administration’s policies regarding indigenous peoples—will also be considered. Comparative studies (e.g., leadership studies, biographies) that contain multiple
Lincoln-related chapters, as well as research on figures traditionally associated with him, can also be accepted. Submissions should present new primary source evidence, offer innovative interpretations and reassessments, or challenge previously established conclusions.

Dissertations composed in languages other than English from 2022 to 2026 are eligible for consideration, provided they are translated and submitted in English.

Selection will be made by a joint ALA/ALI committee, with the winner notified by January 2027. The recipient is expected to accept the award in person (with approved travel and accommodation costs reimbursed) either at the February 2027 ALA banquet in Springfield, Illinois, or the March 2027 ALI symposium at Ford’s Theatre in Washington, D.C.

Dissertations must be submitted as PDF attachments via email to both Dr. David Gerleman ([email protected]) and Dr. Dan Monroe ([email protected]). A one- page cover letter outlining how the dissertation meets the specified eligibility criteria must also be included. Please put 2027 Hay-Nicolay Dissertation Prize in the email subject heading. Information concerning the award is also posted online at https://lincoln-institute.org/dissertation-awards/.

Deadline for submission consideration is 5:00 PM EST on October 17, 2026.