48th Annual Symposium of the Society for German American Studies, Austin

The 48th Annual Symposium of the Society for German-American Studies will be held April 4-6, 2024, in Austin, Texas.  The theme of the Symposium will be “German Americans and Politics.”

Germans and German Americans have long had a considerable impact on US politics.  For instance, in 1860 Heinrich von Struve and his brother Gustav excited ethnic Germans in New York and elsewhere to cast their ballots in favor of Abraham Lincoln, thus influencing a presidential election.

We invite proposals for presentations across disciplines on the role of Germans and German Americans in US politics.  As is the Symposium’s tradition, we also welcome proposals on other areas of German American studies, including, but not limited to, literature, language, history, religion, culture, etc.

Membership in the Society for German-American Studies is required of those whose papers are presented. Jointly authored proposals are welcome. 

Using the subject line “SGAS Symposium 2024,” email the chair of the Organizing Committee, Marc Pierce, at mpierc@austin.utexas.edu with an abstract (500 words maximum, not including references), title, your name, email, complete mailing address, and academic affiliation, if any.  Abstracts must be submitted by December 15, 2023.

If you have questions or need an early decision for funding or travel purposes, please contact Marc Pierce at mpierc@austin.utexas.edu.

SGAS 2024 accommodation information 

A block of rooms has been reserved at the DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Hotel on 15th Street in Austin.  For reservations, visit https://www.hilton.com/en/attend-my-event/ausfldt-ger-ae9a10c7-7402-48c7-b7c2-d1d9be6b1e3e/. 

There are a number of events in Austin during SGAS weekend and hotel rooms are in high demand, so potential participants are encouraged to book accommodations early. 

The area around the University of Texas offers many options for accommodation, including Airbnb and various hotels.  Hotels located close to campus include the Hampton Inn and Suites Austin @ The University/ Capitol, the Holiday Inn, and the Rodeway Inn University/ Downtown. 

We also expect to be able to provide a limited amount of “crash space” for graduate students.  If interested, please contact Marc Pierce.