[Archaeological Institute of America](https://www.archaeological.org)

June 2026

Non-monetary award; recipient receives a certificate and formal recognition at the AIA Annual Meeting.

Recognizes outstanding and innovative undergraduate archaeology educators who inspire and mentor students through creative teaching and commitment to student success.

--- ## Description This annual award honors exceptional achievement and innovation in undergraduate archaeology teaching. It is designed to recognize educators who demonstrate a passion for making archaeology accessible and inspiring, both in the classroom and through fieldwork, mentorship, and outreach. Recipients are celebrated for developing creative and interdisciplinary curricula, fostering inclusive learning environments, integrating research and digital technologies, and supporting the academic and professional growth of students from diverse backgrounds. --- ## Due Dates - June 2026 (anticipated/projected nomination deadline) *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - The award consists of a certificate and formal recognition at the Archaeological Institute of America (AIA) Annual Meeting. - No monetary prize is provided. --- ## Eligibility - Nominees must have a minimum of five years of teaching experience prior to nomination. - Nominees must be currently engaged in undergraduate teaching. - Nominees must have been AIA members in good standing for at least two consecutive years. - Eligible nominees should demonstrate: - Excellence in teaching archaeology at the undergraduate level. - Innovative teaching methods or interdisciplinary curricula. - Attention to diversity and inclusion in their teaching or curriculum. --- ## Application Process - Nominations must be submitted by individuals familiar with the candidate’s teaching (e.g., administrators, department chairs, colleagues, former students, or faculty from other institutions). - A nomination dossier should include: - A nominating letter outlining how the candidate meets the award criteria. - The nominee’s current curriculum vitae. - Four letters of recommendation (at least one each from a student, a colleague, and an academic superior). - A brief description of all relevant courses taught in the past five years, including representative syllabi and course materials. - A brief description of how the nominee engages with diversity and inclusion. - Electronic submission is preferred. --- ## Additional Information - The award is typically given to one individual each year. - The review process occurs over the summer, with decisions made by October and notifications sent in November. - The recipient is recognized at the AIA’s Awards Ceremony in January. --- ## External Links - [Program and nomination details](https://www.archaeological.org/grant/excellence-in-undergraduate-teaching-award/) - [AIA Grants & Awards overview](https://www.archaeological.org/programs/professionals/grants-awards/) --- ## Contact Information | Contact | Details | |--------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------| | General Inquiries | [awards@archaeological.org](mailto:awards@archaeological.org) | | AIA Office | 2000 Commonwealth Avenue, Suite 415, Auburndale, MA 02466 USA | | Phone | 857-305-9350 | | Contact Form | [AIA Contact Page](https://www.archaeological.org/contact/) |

Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching Award - Archaeological Institute of America

Sign in to see full grant listing