About Next Gen Humanities
Engage. Explore. Elevate. At HumanitiesAR, we are dedicated to inspiring the next generation to dive into the rich and diverse world of the humanities. We aim to foster a community where young minds can explore history, literature, philosophy, linguistics, law, archaeology, language, and ethics connecting with others who share their passion for understanding the human experience. Through our Next Gen programming, you can engage in thoughtful book discussions, get professional development and support, attend and present at conferences, and much more. Whether you simply subscribe to our mailing list to stay in the loop or nominate yourself for our Next Gen Advisory Committee, together we can elevate the understanding and appreciation of the humanities across Arkansas.
Book Club
Hosted by our advisory committee, our vibrant Next Gen Book Club allows young people to come together to discuss a range of literary works. Through monthly meetings, members can connect with fellow book enthusiasts and gain fresh perspectives on diverse narratives.
The book club meets virtually on the first Tuesday of each month and in-person on the second Tuesday of each month All meetings will be free and open to the public, and adults of all ages are welcome to join. We know you want to to keep up by reading the scheduled chapters before book club, but we understand that’s not always possible. We welcome you to book club whether you’ve read the chapters or not! Sound interesting? Reach out to Jamie Middleton with questions or to join our mailing list.
Currently reading
Our inaugural book club selection is The Seed Keeper by Diane Wilson (Dakota). Through the book club, you can hear guest speakers from across the state to delve deeper into the book’s themes and tie in local Arkansas history to broaden the group’s discussion.
Up next
Stay tuned for a digital read-a-thon when Americans, a traveling exhibit in partnership with the Smithsonian Institution’s Museum on Main Street, arrives in Arkansas next winter. Join our mailing list to stay up to date and be among the first to hear our next book pick.
Conferences
The Next Gen(eration) Humanities Conference was designed to be a first-of-its-kind whose focus is bridging the gap between education and career for young humanities professionals. The NGH Conference’s varied slate of offerings hopes to bring together this next generation of humanities educators, students, and professionals for a one-stop humanities hub. Attendees will further develop their skills and make impactful connections. Birthed from the Next Generation Advisory Committee, the NGH Conference is determined to continue to take the next steps in helping young professionals in Arkansas.
Save the date!
Coming in the fall of 2025, HumanitiesAR and the Next Gen committee will be taking the Next Gen(eration) Humanities Conference on the road for a one-day mini conference!
In April 2026, the full Next Gen(eration) Humanities Conference will be back in Little Rock! Fill out our interest form to get the latest conference details by email or to express your interest in volunteering.
Past Conferences
Advisory Committee
The Next Generation Advisory Committee is a group of young professional leaders between the ages of 18 and 35, who share a passion for HumanitiesAR mission and meeting other like-minded people. These individuals provide innovative thinking, advocacy, diversity, and consultation for initiating new programs, growing awareness, and engaging with the next generation of humanities leaders.