Hart Institute for American History

The Hart Institute for American History was established in 2000 with a gift from Gurnee Hart ’51 and Marjorie Hart. The institute’s purpose is to ground the study of broad and abiding themes in American history in the close reading of primary documents, a term defined broadly to include such sources as photographs, music, material culture, and literary works, as well as traditional historical sources.

The Hart Institute Sponsors Several Initiatives

Each year the Institute sponsors a lecture series with a broad theme and 5 or 6 prominent researchers to speak on their related work. The theme of the series is linked to a Pomona College seminar course (History 125) where the guest lecturers meet with students for in-depth discussion of the sources and the topic. Most guest lecturers also meet with a faculty seminar during their visits.

The Hart Institute also sponsors student summer research in American history. Stipends up to $4000 are awarded to Pomona students for original, independent research conducted with oversight by a Pomona College faculty member.

The Hart Institute also envisions hosting history workshops for local educators and eventually sponsorship of a publication program.

Faculty

Name/Contact	Title	Profile	Web	Phone	Location
Helena Wall	Director			(909) 607-3907

Staff

Name/Contact	Title	Phone	Location
Michele Palstring	Associate Director	(909) 607-9435