The Western History Association recognizes the best dissertation on the history of the North American West, in its varied aspects and broadest sense, defended and filed in the preceding calendar year. (For example, all dissertations defended and filed in 2022 will be eligible for the 2023 prize.) The prize consists of a $500 award and a plaque. Authors of eligible dissertations must be a member of the WHA at the time of submission.

For the 2023 award cycle, submit the following to each committee member listed below: 1) a cover letter with contact information including name, affiliation, and preferred email address and 2) the dissertation, which should include an abstract. 

-2023 Awards Cycle opens January 25, 2023

-2023 Award Submission Deadline: April 15, 2023

The WHA office will notify the 2023 recipient in mid-September.