Resources:Commonwealth Speakers

See Commonwealth Speaker Tania Isaac's WHYY Experience segment.


2008-09 Commonwealth Speakers catalog details over 135 free presentations.

2008-09 Season of Free Presentations
Whether you are new to the Pennsylvania Humanities Council and its programs or have hosted a Commonwealth Speakers presentation before, welcome.

The humanities are about sharing powerful stories and exploring big ideas. The Commonwealth Speakers program offers humanities-based programming to nonprofit organizations across the Commonwealth. From sessions on African American storytelling, to Pennsylvania German hoe-downing, to researching family history, thousands of Pennsylvanians enjoy these free presentations each year. Through Commonwealth Speakers, members of public libraries, arts and cultural centers, state parks, senior centers, historical societies, etc. explore the ideas that shape the human experience.

Types of Presentations

The 2008-09 Commonwealth Speakers line-up features 88 speakers—selected for their demonstrated expertise and their ability to engage an audience. More than 135 presentations are offered. While these presentations all share a common factor—the opportunity to come together and learn—they are incredibly diverse in terms of topic, format and participants.

View the complete line-up of 2008-09 presentations, organized by program category, e.g., Native American Life and History. Presentations also include participatory formats and special family learning opportunities.

How to Apply

  1. Review the current guidelines carefully to ensure that your organization and planned event are suitable. Application forms can be downloaded in [PDF] or [Word] formats. To receive them by mail, contact the PHC.

  2. See the new Frequently Asked Questions section for help with common questions. Additional information on submitting an application can be found on the Application Process page.

  3. Submit your application. Instructions for preparing your application are included on the application form. Incomplete applications will not be accepted. Applications must be received at least eight weeks prior to your desired program date. Applications may be submitted by mail or fax. Organizations will receive notification of decisions approximately four weeks after receipt of the application.

Humanities Live, a partnership between PHC and WHYY-TV showcases Commonwealth Speakers whose presentations are adapted for television and taped before a live audience.

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