Western Michigan University will welcome more than 1,700 medieval scholars from around the world for the 61st International Congress on Medieval Studies, scheduled for May 14-16. The event will take place at several campus locations including the WMU Student Center, Sangren Hall, Waldo Library, Kanley Chapel and the Gilmore Theatre Complex.
The congress brings together experts and enthusiasts of medieval studies to share research and ideas. Participants will engage in paper sessions, roundtables, workshops, demonstrations and performances. The event continues with a hybrid format that includes both in-person and virtual sessions to foster broad participation.
Dr. Robert F. Berkhofer III, director of the WMU Medieval Institute said, “We are very much looking forward to continuing the spirit of friendship and international cooperation among scholars. We welcome all scholars of the Middle Ages and anyone interested in learning more about the societies and cultures of the Middle Ages.”
Special events during the congress include concerts, theatrical performances, library exhibits and hands-on workshops such as wood carving and wool spinning. A concert by artist Ronnie Malley featuring Arab music is scheduled for Saturday evening at Kanley Chapel with general admission tickets available for $25.
Plenary lectures will be delivered by Alison Perchuk from California State University Channel Islands on “Apocalypse and Community in Medieval Italian Art” (May 14) and Michelle M. Sauer from University of North Dakota on “The Queerness of Solitude” (May 15). Special speakers Timothy C. Graham from The University of New Mexico and David Gura from University of Notre Dame are also featured.
For those interested in digital scholarship methods tailored to medievalists, WMU will host its first Digital Medieval Studies Institute on May 13 as part of an ongoing cross-disciplinary initiative.
Registration is free for WMU affiliates using their university email address; Kalamazoo residents may register at a discounted rate while other rates depend on annual income. Advance registration closes April 29 but attendees can continue registering online through May 31 or onsite during the congress period.
According to the official website, Western Michigan University fields 16 Division I varsity sports as a Mid-American Conference member. The university supports inclusive excellence for all students according to its official website. Sustainability is promoted through LEED-certified buildings and award-winning landscaping according to its official website. Several graduate programs have earned top-100 national rankings according to its official website. More than 17,000 students are enrolled at Western Michigan University according to its official website, which emphasizes education that is learner-focused, research-oriented and globally involved according to its official website.
The next International Congress on Medieval Studies is scheduled at Western Michigan University for May 13-15, 2027.