Scholarship Information

Historic Naval Ships Association has secured funding for a select number of scholarships to help cover the cost of conference expenses. Awardees will receive free general registration ($400 value) and up to $500 may be awarded in reimbursements for travel expenses. Scholarships are awarded through the generosity of past conference organizers, attendees, and partner organizations. The number of scholarships is dependent on funding, but is usually about five. 

Eligibility:

  • Anyone affiliated with a museum, library, historical society, or related study program (e.g. Museum Studies, Public History, Library and Information Studies, Historic Preservation).
  • This includes full-time or part-time employees, board members, students, interns, and volunteers.
  • Past conference attendees are encouraged to apply, but winners will not be eligible for the scholarship in future years.
  • Preference will be given to first time attendees, sole attendees from an organization, and applicants that identify as belonging to a group historically underserved by the field. 
  • Scholarships are open to U.S. Residents and Residents of countries that do not require a sponsored visa to visit the U.S.

Expectations:

By sending in a completed application, applicants are indicating that they will be able to attend the conference if awarded a scholarship. If you are awarded a scholarship and turn it down or do not attend the conference, you may not be eligible for a scholarship in the future. Scholarship recipients are asked to assist the conference staff during the conference; information on specific expectations will be communicated after the selection process is complete. 

Applications Accepted Starting JUNE 1, 2026 for our September 2028 meeting in Evansville, IN.

Complete Application Here 

Submit the following BY EMAIL to [email protected] with the subject line “Scholarship Application”. The package should include:

  1. A completed application:
    1. Fill out online (click above) (does not need to be emailed, but should be noted as "completed online" in the email submission); OR
    2. Download form. Fill out and attach to e-mail to Exec Director. Link to PDF (may require hand/typed fill-in),  Link to DOCX;
  2. A brief letter of recommendation from a supervisor/advisor; and
  3. A current resume.
All submissions must be received by August 1, 2026. The HNSA Scholarship Committee will determine the winners of the scholarships and notify them by email by August 15, 2026. Successful applicants or their organizations must pay for the trip and HNSA will reimburse them once receipts have been submitted. Awardees will be provided a discount code to use in creating their own registrations.