The Society of Southwest Archivists will host its first in-person annual meeting in two years from May 18-21, 2022. The theme this year is Small Steps, Giant Leaps. As we have all faced numerous challenges over the past year, we would like to learn about barriers faced, creative solutions, and what the “new normal” looks like for your archive.
Session proposals are welcome on any subject or skill relevant to the archives or records management professions. Proposals will be evaluated on the completeness of the description, the originality of the topic, and the diversity of speakers. In addition, the Program Committee will prioritize submissions with a strong equity, diversity, and inclusion component.
We encourage proposal submissions from non-SSA members and those located outside of the Southwest. However, please note that conference registration is required for those whose proposals are accepted.
The deadline for submission is Friday, December 18th, 2021.
Specific areas of member interest include:
- Pandemic-related Topics:
- Change management
- Collecting around tragedy
- Career transitions/pivots
- Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility
- Community Archives
- Records Management
- Science, Medical, and/or Local Government Archives
- Skills Training:
- Technical: conservation, digital conversion, basic coding, EAD, ArchivesSpace
- Administrative: fundraising, donor relations, grant-writing, management
The Program Committee invites submissions in the following formats:
Panel Discussion
A traditional session with three to five speakers, each giving 10-15 minute presentations on a single theory or perspective on a given topic, followed by time for questions. Prepared papers are not required, the Moderator/Chair is usually one of the speakers.
Roundtable Discussion
Less formal than a Panel Discussion, a Roundtable session consists of one to three presentations of 10 minutes each that describe a theory, issue, or initiative followed by small group discussions where participants and speakers share ideas. A session Chair is not required.
Lightning Talks
A large panel of eight to ten speakers that deliver 5 minute talks on a common theme or issue, keeping a lively pace and sharing relevant take-away ideas. A session Chair is required to compile presentation materials and maintain the time schedule.
Skills Training
Are you a whiz at making phase boxes? Have experience building exhibits of paper items? Share your skills with other members in a mini-workshop setting. Focus on one or two skills that can be shared in a 60 or 90-minute session. Skills Training sessions can have one or two speakers, and a moderator to assist with materials. Proposals should include details of the speaker’s relevant experience or training.
Lunch Meeting/Discussion
Are you part of a state or local archival organization that would like to meet up at SSA? Use this form to let us know! Want to start a book club or a study group? Get your special interest in the program to reach more potential members.
Please click here to submit your proposal.
The Program Committee has created a Google spreadsheet to facilitate collaboration and the creation of joint proposals. The program committee will also attempt to create an entire session around your proposal!
Timeline
Proposal deadline | December 18, 2021