Speakers Bureau

The National Women's Studies Association (NWSA) Speakers Bureau is an opportunity for members to build a mutually beneficial relationship with the organization. Members who participate in the Speakers Bureau agree to donate to NWSA all or part of their speaker fees earned through giving public lectures for a specified amount of time. In turn, NWSA will advertise the members’ participation in the Bureau, spotlight them on the NWSA website, conference program, and social media (12,000 Facebook followers, 9000 on X, and 3000 in Instagram, 1000 on LinkedIn), and offer an official recognition during the Membership Assembly at the annual NWSA conference.

The Details

Who is eligible to participate?

Any NWSA member who gives paid lectures related to their research, activism, creative work etc. is eligible.

How do you apply?

Each summer the NWSA Treasurer will submit a call for participation in the Speakers Bureau for the upcoming academic year. Members can apply by submitting a brief abstract (250 words or less) that summarizes the subjects they are available to speak on, a CV, and if applicable, links to their website or other online presence. The Finance Committee of the Governing Council will determine the Bureau based on the mission and needs of the organization. The GC may also invite members to participate.

What does the process look like?

Once you’re approved as a member, you’ll sign a contract with NWSA that indicates your willingness to participate, the amount of time you would like to participate (i.e., anywhere from one month to an academic year), and the percentage of your earnings (at least 15%, including an estimate of the dollar amount) or raw dollar amount you plan to donate. Participants agree to pay the agreed upon amount directly to NWSA by May 31st of the relevant academic year.

Can I participate for more than one year?

Applications will be solicited annually, but we welcome members to apply for more than one year. 

Like abolitionists everywhere, we are busily thinking, organizing, dreaming, beyond the dystopic present. In the meantime, let us sustain ourselves with olives from trees as ancient as Palestine itself, and corn lovingly picked by hands the color of soil, not harvested through giant mechanical arms. Let us wash down this nutritious fare with fresh clean water, as we appreciate that, from Rafah to Standing Rock, Mni Wiconi, and the land is ours to care for, as it cares for us. We are coming together, beyond boundaries, and together, we are greater than the sum of our parts. 

~ Nada Elia