Apply to be a Road Scholar

We’re seeking Illinois-based speakers who demonstrate the following characteristics: 

• Expertise and passion in the subject matter on which they wish to offer presentations;
• Public speaking or teaching experience;
• An engaging presence and the ability to facilitate discussion among audiences of diverse cultural and economic backgrounds;
• A talent for finding interesting perspectives on subjects both obscure and familiar;
• Interest in visiting communities throughout Illinois and interacting with a wide range of people; and
• Representation of multiple perspectives and voices that reflect the diversity of Illinois – including, but not limited to, the experiences of communities of color, indigenous communities, LGBTQ+ communities, immigrant communities, rural communities, communities living in poverty, and working-class communities. We encourage those who are fluent and willing to present in languages other than English to apply.

Illinois Humanities Road Scholar Speakers are asked to do the following:

•  up to five presentations during each program year (at times mutually arranged with host organizations);
• Attend a half-day virtual speaker orientation;
• Encourage dialogue and conversation among their program audiences;
• Provide their own mode of transportation (travel costs are reimbursed by Illinois Humanities);
• Reach out to potential host organizations whenever possible to generate interest in their presentation; and
• Respond to host organization requests in a timely manner.

Speakers who are selected to join our Road Scholars Speakers roster will receive a set amount per presentation based on the mileage and event format. This amount is intended to cover an honorarium based on miles traveled as well as necessary lodging and meals.

Illinois Humanities seeks speakers representing a wide range of disciplines and professional activities, including history, literature, art, music, philosophy, government, and the natural and social sciences insofar as they relate to the humanities. While an academic background in your proposed topic is not a requirement, we do seek presentations that reflect thorough research and thoughtful interpretation. We do not consider instructional workshops or how-to programs (e.g., “Learn How to Speak in Public”).

In general, we’re looking for topics that pique our curiosity, surprise our intellects, and offer the potential to fuel inquiry and conversation about ideas and works that shape our culture.

We also welcome a variety of presentation styles and formats, particularly those that engage audiences actively – such as musical or theatrical performances, and workshops that encourage storytelling, dialogue, and co-creation.  We’re happy to consider lectures with question-and-answer sessions, but if you’d rather facilitate a discussion on a novel or lead the audience in a chorus of a Civil War song, we’d love to hear about what you have in mind.

• Applications for the 2026-2027 Road Scholars Speakers Bureau are closed.
• Please add your information to our interest list if you wish to be considered for the 2028-2029 roster.

If you have any questions about the Road Scholars Speakers Bureau program, contact Nicole Rodriguez at speakers@ilhumanities.org.