BAAS Executive Committee Meeting: January 9, 2004

Minutes of the 237th meeting of the Executive Committee, held at US Embassy on January 9, 2004.

1. Present

P Davies (Chair), J Beer (Vice Chair), H Macpherson (Secretary), N Selby (Treasurer), J Davies, J. Kleinberg, C Morley, S Newman, I Scott, C Smith, G Thompson, J Virden, T Woods

In Attendance: S Wedlake

Apologies: S Castillo, K Cooper, S MacLachlan, I Ralston, P Thompson

2. Minutes of the Previous Meeting

After correction of minor typographical errors, the minutes of the 236th meeting were accepted as a true record and will now be posted on the website.

3. Matters Arising

PD asked the Committee to revisit item 5h under the Secretary’s business and outlined some reservations. Because we are a Charity, BAAS cannot pay benefits to trustees. BAAS offers, if necessary, to pay for postgraduate and teacher members of the executive to attend the conference, for policy reasons. The proposal recorded in item 5h creates an annual expenditure that cannot be controlled by the Treasurer. PD argued that members would be unhappy with this sort of expenditure. JB responded that three members of the Committee have no choice about attendance: Chair, Treasurer, and Secretary, because the AGM cannot function without them. Thus, if attendance is part of their tenure, then BAAS should support these officers if their Universities do not. CS seconded this proposal, and the Committee as a whole agreed to restrict any assistance to the officers, with a clear directive that this option should only be used as a last resort.

4. Chair’s Business

A) The Chair circulated correspondence received, which included the following: British Academy Review, Roosevelt Review (from the Netherlands), Higher Quality (QAA’s October issue), Atlas, bulletin of Area Studies part of LTSN, LLAS Notes also from LTSN.

B) PD attended the American Studies postgraduate conference at IUSS (25/10/03) and the Area Studies inaugural meeting (UKCASA) (5/11/03). JD also attended. With colleagues’ support, PD has been nominated for Chair of United Kingdom Council of Area Studies Associations (UKCASA); elections will be held on 5/2/04. PD reported that UKCASA’s draft Constitution was based on the BAAS constitution.

C) PD also attended the SASA conference at Stirling (21/11/03) and reported favourably on the programme, which was full and of good quality, and noted that the conference was well attended.

D) PD reported on his attendance of the IUSS Advisory board on 26/11/03. As has been reported in the Press, the University of London has decided to merge IUSS and ILAS into an Institute for the Study of the Americas, with Prof. James Dunkerley taking on the role of the Director. Prof. Dunkerley is planning to visit AS colleagues around country, and other posts are to be advertised soon. SN suggested BAAS formally invite him to attend the conference; the Committee agreed. NS reported that he has already been in touch about BAAS membership.

E) PD also attended the College of Academicians, ALSISS, Association of Learned Societies in the Social Sciences meeting on 8/12/03, and the American Politics Group conference in Oxford on 2-3/1/04; about 40 delegates attended the conference.

F) PD addressed the JAS/CUP proposals circulated by email last week. After the last meeting, which PD could not attend, PD discussed ideas for ways forward with Joe Mottershead. Four possibilities were considered: leaving things way they are; including JAS as part of the BAAS subscriptions in hard copy; electronic access; and offering members a gift of JAS. It was noted that most professional organisations have a journal as part of their membership. The Committee would like the AGM to be presented with the option of including JAS hard copy subscription in BAAS Membership. PD was asked to discuss the matter further with CUP with the target of bringing an appropriate proposal to the AGM.

G) PD closed by thanking Sue Wedlake and the Embassy for inviting BAAS to have their meeting there and for providing lunch.

5. Secretary’s Business

A) The Secretary circulated correspondence received, including an email from the Charity Commission about its electronic newsletter; a letter notifying us that the BAAS proposal for ring-fenced awards had not been successful; information about the American Studies Research Portal, and the minutes of the last BLARS meeting.

B) HM reported that actions taken since the last meeting included periodic updating of information and records for national surveys; continuing to add names to the externals list; distribution of calls for papers and requests for information to the website and the listserve; and assisting members with diverse queries, including information about the short term travel awards.

C) HM noted that libraries and individuals continue to show interest in the BAAS pamphlet series.

D) HM thanked GT for clarifying information on the website regarding the US newspaper database, which has meant a reduction in queries about this.

6. Treasurer’s Business

A) The Treasurer reported that current membership figures stand at 509, 160 of which are postgraduates. The total figure includes 122 who haven’t yet returned renewals for 2004, but it does not include 40 who have not altered standing order mandates and 74 who did not renew last January but whose details we still have on record.

B) NS reported that BAAS balances are as follows: current account, £1107; conference, £4226; library resources, £1101; Educational Development, £1067; STA, £20,378, and Deposit, £22,172, making a total of £50,051. (There are additional monies in the RBS Jersey account of £14,548, and in the US dollar account of $1505.04.)

C) NS reported on further attempts to defraud BAAS in the same manner as was reported at the last meeting. Amounts totalling £417.27 had been taken from the General Deposit Account, but Barclays refunded the money on 7/9/03. NS has now instructed Barclays not to accept any payments out of the account, and there have been no further incidents.

D) NS noted that the Leicester MBAAS account has now been closed, with £277.05 paid to BAAS on 1/12/03.

E) NS reported that the Embassy acted quickly in relation to the lost grant request reported on at the previous meeting, and that the grant was subsequently approved. The signed agreement letter contract was returned to the Embassy on 18/11/03, and NS is awaiting the cheque.

F) NS reported he has written to Alun Munslow about the Halifax (old Leeds) Building Society account and is awaiting further correspondence on the matter. The last definite information is that BAAS was given circa £50 interest on the account in 1996. The Committee discussed ways forward, and SW suggested that NS contact Halifax head office with a complaint.

G) NS has requested and is awaiting forms R68 (2000) and R68 (New Gift Aid) from the Inland Revenue to allow us to start claiming Gift Aid.

H) NS reported that he had received correspondence regarding the European Journal of American Culture asking BAAS to explore ways to link the journal with BAAS membership. EJAC had been offered free to members this past year. The Committee felt that this was not a membership benefit but agreed that NS could offer to do a mailshot for them to express thanks for the gift.

7. Conference Subcommittee (TW reporting)

A) Because of time constraints, the Committee agreed to a reordering of the agenda to allow for a full discussion of the Conference subcommittee’s business.

B) TW reported that the majority of the subcommittee’s time was spent looking over information about the MMU conference. It was agreed that the booking form would need to be revised and sent out again. In particular, it was felt that the gap between member and non-member costs should be extended, that the deadline should be extended, and that information about accommodation should be revised. It was acknowledged that the hotel’s deadline was the most important issue, and TW is to pursue this topic with SM.

C) TW reported that the draft conference looked full and interesting, and that adjustments had been made to the times of the plenary addresses. Bharati Mukherjee was confirmed as attending. TW was to liaise with SM about the BAAS teachers’ meeting, the exchange meeting, the Early Americanists’ meeting, and the postgraduate meeting.

D) TW reported that the contact person for the Cambridge conference was still undecided, and this was something that needed to be followed up urgently. TW is to pursue Prof. T Badger on this matter.

E) TW discussed future conference venues. Various institutions had been contacted, and a number of universities expressed interest in future events, but the 2006 conference venue had yet to be confirmed. TW is to contact interested parties for more information.

F) TW reported that he had had discussions with Prof. Dick Ellis regarding the proposed pan-American conference and that Prof. Ellis had suggested approaching the Latin American or Caribbean Area Studies networks. TW is to liaise with ISA and the British Library about venues.

G) SN asked for the minutes to reflect the Committee’s thanks to SM for her hard work in organising the 2004 conference, and her commitment to keeping the costs as low as possible.

8. Development Subcommittee (SN reporting)

A) SN reported that a number of STA awards had made, and extended thanks to the Embassy, and to the STA judges, for their commitment to the process. Although there were fewer applications than in previous years, they were generally of a high quality, and SN was able to notify the successful applicants before Christmas. The list of successful applicants is below:
Leen Maes (Newcastle), the Marcus Cunliffe Award
Julie Atkinson (UEA), the John D. Lees Award
Howard Cunnell (IUSS), the Malcolm Bradbury Award
Neil Sparnon (Anglia Polytechnic University), the Peter Parish Award
Michelle Henley (Cantab)
Mariko Ijima (Oxon)
Aili McConnon (Cantab)
Paul Edwards (Nottingham)
Elizabeth Rosen (UCL)
Andrew Fearnley (Cantab)

B) SN reported that the school teachers’ initiative is going forward. A small group including IR, SN, KC and IS, as well as two teachers from KC’s school, met to discuss ways forward, and SN extended his thanks to them. SN has sent a proposal to the US embassy. The initiative centres on gathering and/or creating American Studies materials for the classroom in order to help with the teaching of American subjects, and on enabling teachers to attend the annual conference.

C) SN reported that interviews for the BAAS Teaching Assistantships had taken place, and that 2 recommendations had gone forward. The successful candidates were John Havard (Leeds) for the University of Virginia award, and Michael Penny (Lancaster) for the University of New Hampshire award. Thanks were extended to the interviewers.

D) SN reported that as a consequence of the successful nature of the programme, Virginia asked for a reciprocal arrangement. The Committee felt that because this was a BAAS arrangement, and not university-specific, such an exchange was not viable. However, it was agreed to explore ways to ensure links; one option was to pay registration and conference fees for a few Virginia and UNH students/staff to attend the 50th anniversary conference, though not travel costs. SN is to explore this further.

E) SN discussed the recent THES article about American Studies and graduate employment prospects, and it was agreed that Committee members should forward examples of American Studies graduate success stories to SN to counteract any negative and unfair assumptions that might be made as a result of the article. SN is to collate and disseminate this information.

F) SN noted that it is important for BAAS to have a larger presence on the Academy of Social Sciences and the Committee should think carefully about nominations to the body.

G) SN reported that the postgraduate conference was a success, and that some of the papers will appear in the next issue of US Studies On Line.

H) SN reported that he will contact people who were awarded the BAAS studentship recommendations and the Ambassador’s Awards and invite them to the conference dinner, which the Committee agreed to fund. SN will also contact the winners of the travel awards and let them know they will be honoured at the Dinner.

9. Publications Subcommittee (JB reporting)

A) JB reported on BRRAM activities, noting in particular that 2 collections are to be released in the next 12 months, and that this is in line with BRRAM expectations. These are the Liverpool Customs Bills (final batch) and the Slebech papers. The market for the series comes primarily from standing orders in the US, which are declining slightly, and Ken Morgan would like the Committee to consider ways to increase the profile of BRRAM. JK has provided KM with advertising rates for JAS and will put a footnote in an upcoming article about the Whitman papers. Anyone on the Committee who has ideas for future projects should contact KM.

B) JB reported that the EUP series is going well and figures were circulated. EUP are happy with current sales figures, and with co-publishing agreements in the US. Guidelines to writers are to be made more specific in line with academic practice.

C) JB noted that the next deadline for ASIB is 15 January and that the next issue will include obituaries of Esmond Wright, Kate Fullbrook, and Mary Eccles. The draft conference programme will also be included.

D) JB reported that the April issue of JAS has been sent to press, and that there are currently around 100 articles a year being submitted to the editor. A special issue is being considered but will go through the normal refereeing process. Several members of the editorial board have terms that are coming to an end, and there was a full discussion of potential new members.

E) JB noted that the website is averaging 160 unique visitors a day. The newsletter is the most popular element, with 48% of visitors accessing it. The second most popular element is the US newspaper database with 13% of visitors viewing it. The contract with the current web provider expires in February, and GT is planning to change to a new company because of the problems with access this year. The website conforms to priority one requirements of the new disability guidelines, and GT will review further changes this summer.

F) JB reported that Issue 4 of US Studies on Line has just been published, and CM is taking over as editor from GT for the next issue, which will include essays from the recent postgraduate conference.

G) JB asked Committee members to notify GT if they would like a BAAS email address.

10. Libraries and Resources Subcommittee

A) No report was offered as IR was unable to attend, but the Committee was reminded of the date of the next BLARS meeting.

11. EAAS (JV reporting)

A) JV reported that problems with the EAAS newsletter have continued. She has corresponded with the editor of the newsletter and various members of the executive, but problems are still ongoing and this led to a full discussion about the membership cost of EAAS. The Committee agreed that the newsletter is the most significant benefit for BAAS members, and felt that BAAS needed to take a firm stance. The issue of delaying payment of the EAAS subscription was raised and debated. The Committee came to the conclusion that JV should seek more information from other EAAS representative before taking potentially adverse steps, and that this discussion would continue through email.

B) JV reported that the EAAS website continues to provide good information, but that the Committee should help advertise information on it, such as deadlines for submission to the newsletter, travel grant deadlines (1ST March) and other relevant information in the absence of the newsletter.

C) JV reported that the Graz proceedings will soon be out, and that the “Stemming the Mississippi” issue has appeared.

12. Fiftieth Anniversary Planning (JV reporting)

A) JV noted that the 50th anniversary CD plans were going ahead, and that Committee members would shortly be asked for their nominations (and an alternative).

B) JV reported that work was still on going on the questionnaire, and that the Embassy may help launch it. SW and JV were planning to go to Cambridge to liaise with the conference representative as soon as the person was confirmed.

C) JV is still welcoming suggestions for the 50th anniversary celebrations.

13. Any Other Business

A) JD reminded colleagues that he is a representative on the advisory board for the LTSN, and would be going to a meeting next week. If any member has an issue to raise, they should let him know.

B) PD asked the Committee to help advertise the 15th March Eccles Centre conference on elections and campaigning. He thanked the Embassy for providing for the plenary speaker.

C) PD noted that the next meeting will be his last as Chair, and that the postgraduate representative member would also be coming to the end of her tenure. Three Committee members’ terms were also up, though each was eligible to stand for re-election if they so desired.

D) PD reported that Tim Woods had received a Personal Chair at Aberystwyth, and the Committee extended congratulations to him.

14. Date of next meeting

15 April at 11am at MMU. Subcommittees will not meet prior to the main meeting, so Chairs should conduct any necessary business by email.

Dr Heidi Macpherson, Secretary
Phone (office): (01772) 893039
Fax: (01772) 892924
email: hrsmacpherson@uclan.ac.uk

BAAS Executive Committee Meeting: October 4, 2003

Minutes of the 236th meeting of the Executive Committee, held at Manchester Metropolitan University on October 4, 2003.

1. Present

J Beer (Vice Chair), H Macpherson (Secretary), N Selby (Treasurer), S Castillo, K Cooper, J Davies, C Morley, S Newman, I Ralston, I Scott, G Thompson, J Virden, T Woods

In attendance: S MacLachlan, S Wedlake

Apologies P Davies, J. Kleinberg, C Smith

2. Minutes of the Previous Meetings

After correction of two typographical errors, the minutes of the 235th meeting were accepted as a true record and will now be posted on the website.

3. Matters Arising

A) JB reported that the IUSS review, referenced in point 4c, is ongoing and will have its final meeting shortly.

B) JB reported on the progress of the AHRB bid for a ring-fenced award. Although successful in the first stage of the bid, BAAS subsequently discovered that Keele had made a similar bid, and the decision was taken to work with Keele’s bid, which was made on behalf of a wider university network. Therefore, at the second stage of the bid, Prof. Ian Bell took the lead, with HM collating BAAS comments and responding to the draft. JB asked that the minutes reflect thanks to Prof. Bell and to HM for their roles in this bid.

C) The Actions List was reviewed, and matters arising include the following: TW responded to Action 1, noting that discussions about a Pan American Teaching Conference are ongoing. JD suggested linking these discussions with the new Umbrella Area Studies Organisation meeting scheduled for November. TW is to liaise with the LTSN and Prof. Dick Ellis in advance of the event. Actions 2-8 have been progressed, as well as actions 10-12. Action 9 is ongoing, with NS intending to contact Alun Munslow shortly. Action 13 will be placed on the minutes from this meeting. GT reported an excellent response from postgraduates in relation to the IUSS Thesis in American Studies project. The rest of the actions are ongoing, or have been progressed.

4. Chair’s Business (written report from PD)

A) In the absence of the Chair, JB as Vice Chair reported on the chair’s activities. Since the last meeting, PD has represented BAAS at a number of events, including: the US Ambassador’s Independence Day reception, Winfield House and gardens; the American Society’s Independence Day party, Winfield House and gardens; the David Bruce colloquium, University of Keele; the 2003 Political Marketing Conference, London where he was the plenary speaker; and a welcome lunch for David Johnson, newly-appointed Minister at the US Embassy.

B) PD’s report recorded that responses to events and documents had been made to the following: Professor Badger’s commission on the IUSS (a copy will be lodged with the minutes); the Roberts Report (a copy of which will be lodged with the minutes). SN completed the vast majority of the work on this response, and thanks are extended especially to him, but also to everyone who provided input. PD also reported on the call for AHRB ring-fenced proposals, which is referenced above. PD asked for thanks to be extended to Ian Bell, JB, HM and all who worked on this proposal.

C) PD’s report praised the ASIB for its scope and reliability, and extended thanks to GT. The reports from the Aberystwyth Conference were interesting, though not as numerous as in the past, and the STA awards were particularly engaging and show the range and impact that BAAS support has.

D) PD’s report offered a full programme for the upcoming “Congress to Campus” visit occurring between 21-25 October. A combination of US foundations arranges for retired members of US Congress to make 3-day visits to US campuses to engage in discussion with students and the public. As a result, and with additional support from the US Embassy and De Montfort University, Congress to Campus (founded in 1976) is to make its first ever visit outside the boundaries of the USA. In attendance will be the former Congressmen Louis Frey (R-FL) and Larry LaRocco (D-ID). The hope is that if it is a success, it might lead to repeat visits in the future to involve other institutions and to develop the programme on the basis of experience, so that it might become a repeating resource for BAAS members. The programme as scheduled is as follows, and anyone wishing to attend should contact PD:

Tuesday 21 October
6th form conference – Eccles Centre/BL conference centre
(speakers: Iwan Morgan, Robert Singh, Philip Davies, the visiting Congressmen)
Wednesday 22 Oct
Research seminar on Congress & President Bush/DMU
(speaker: Ross English, Congressmen to respond)
Thursday 23 October
undergraduate conference – DMU
(speakers: Wyn Rees, Nick Cull, Tim Lynch, David Waller, the Congressmen, Philip Davies)
public presentation on US-UK relations & current world affairs
(speakers: the congressmen, John Dumbrell to respond)
Friday 24 October
6th form conference – DMU
(speakers: David Ryan, Ian Jackson, Philip Davies, Robert Singh, Clive Gray, the Congressmen)
Saturday 25 Oct
informal appearance at IUSS London postgraduate conference.

E) The next item in PD’s report, on JAS subscriptions and a proposal for 50th anniversary was discussed in the Publications Subcommittee and is referenced below.

F) PD announced new appointments and promotions: Deborah Madsen has taken a Chair of American Literature at the University of Geneva; Prof. Des King has been elected a Fellow of the British Academy; Prof. John Dumbrell will take up a new Chair of American Politics at the University of Leicester in January 2004; Philip Davies has been elected to membership of the Pilgrims’ Society of Great Britain; Janet Beer has been elected Chair of CUDAH (Council of University Deans of Arts and Humanities); Heidi Macpherson has been made Reader in North American Literature at the University of Central Lancashire.

G) PD regretfully announced the deaths of the following BAAS members or supporters of American Studies in Britain: Esmond Wright, former chair of BAAS; Philip (P.A.M.) Taylor, one of the founders of the American Studies programme at Hull University; Richard Maidment, who was active as Professor of American Government in the Open University and who represented the OU in its USA operations; and Mary Eccles, founder and generous benefactor of the Eccles Centre for American Studies at the British Library.

H) In closing, JB reiterated PD’s earlier thanks to GT for the regularity and usefulness of ASIB.

5. Secretary’s Business

A) The Secretary reported that she frequently receives queries about the US newspaper database; it is a well-used resource. However, a number of correspondents wrongly believe that BAAS holds a newspaper archive and ask for access to it; GT has agreed to make the website clearer on this issue.

B) HM reported that she had received a report from the Academy of Social Sciences entitled “Great Expectations: The Social Sciences in Britain.” If anyone would like a copy, they should email her.

C) HM noted that actions taken on behalf of BAAS since the last meeting included updating BAAS records with national surveys; acting as a point of reference for queries about American Studies; and updating and circulating the list of potential external examiners. Numbers of examiners listed is still low, but it is clear that there is a very real demand for such a list, so the Secretary will endeavour to publicize it frequently.

D) HM reported that she had attended the 26 September JAS editorial board meeting in London.

E) HM reported that she has been in contact with Peter Boyle (Nottingham) regarding BAAS studentships, and noted that everyone should have received their flyers on this programme by now.

F) HM noted that she had taken receipt of the BAAS chair audio tapes, which will be used as part of the 50th anniversary celebrations. She also reported that Judie Newman suggested that both she and PD are interviewed to make a complete set; the Committee agreed that this was a good idea and will progress this once it is clear how the original interviews were conducted.

G) HM reported that a number of libraries had been in touch regarding the old BAAS pamphlet series, so it is clear that this series is still generating interest.

H) In closing, HM reported that university funding for conferences is tight in her University and in several others, and asked that the Committee discuss funding executive committee members’ attendance at the annual conference. After a full discussion, it was agreed that Committee members should first seek university or other funding, but that if this was not forthcoming, BAAS would consider paying conference fees for Committee members in good standing. Note: this matter was revisited in January and the outcomes will be presented in the next set of minutes.

6. Treasurer’s Business

A) The Treasurer reported that current membership is as follows: fully paid up, 456 (138 postgraduates); still to renew 134 (38 postgraduates, 48 still need to renew Standing orders). NS is planning a final mailshot soon.

B) NS reported that BAAS balances as of 3/10/03 are as follows: Current £1050; Conference £6427; Lib. Res. £1101; Ed. Dev. £1654; STA £20,987; Deposit £15,114. (Jersey £14,548; US Dollar account $1505.04.)

C) NS reported that further security measures were being put in place in relation to BAAS’s deposit account.

D) NS reported that Elizabeth Clapp has now contacted the bank about the MBAAS money and a cheque would be arriving soon.

E) NS reported that he sent the letter requesting a grant from the US Embassy for the Manchester conference immediately after the last meeting. NS has followed this up with SW, and it appears that Dennis Wolf never received the first letter. SW notes the necessity for a quick decision. SW suggested that we always chase things just in case things go astray.

F) NS is still on the trail of the Halifax (old Leeds) Building Society account and will contact Alun Munslow shortly.

7. Development Subcommittee (SN reporting)

A) SN reported that the subcommittee had received one request for funding from Adrian Hunter at Stirling University for SASA. The Committee agreed to provide a £200 grant.

B) SN reported that much progress had been made on the 50th anniversary celebrations, with JV doing a lot of work on a questionnaire (circulated to the Committee) which will be sent to members via email after the Manchester Conference. It will also be sent to guests, US Embassy personnel, famous expats and those with an interest in the US. KC suggested sending it to Modern History Review, and TW suggested a more serious article for the THES. Various other newspapers were suggested. SN reported that a more serious article on the 50th anniversary was being written by Louis Billington, with the hope that it will be suitable for JAS. If not, ASIB will run it.

C) SN noted that a lot of the subcommittee time was spent discussing conference matters, and it was proposed that JV and SW sit in on the conference committee in the future; TW supported this idea, and the Committee as a whole agreed. SN reported that they discussed the 50th anniversary conference particularly, and that initial contact had been made with contacts in Cambridge. The dates of the conference have been finalized as 14-17 April. JV has been working on EAAS and their participation in the 50th conference, noting that it should be possible to advertise the cfp for Cambridge more widely in Europe given the fact that EAAS will meet in conjunction with it. There was a general discussion about political and corporate guests, and inviting the Irish Association for American Studies. SW reported that plans to celebrate the Fulbright centenary (9 April 2005) and transatlantic exchanges could be linked in some ways to the conference in 2005. JB suggested trying for a reception for British Fulbright alumni at Cambridge. There was agreement that this was a good idea. JB reported on links with Operation Black Vote and suggested that there may be a link with BAAS and Fulbright in relation to a special youth event tied to BAAS; SW is to explore this further.

D) SN noted that the plans for a 50th anniversary CD were moving forward; JV will email Committee members soon asking for their favourite piece of American music.

E) SN reported on the School Teachers’ initiative, especially in relation to the annual conference. IR has offered to include a mailshot questionnaire (put together by the Development Subcommittee) asking teachers what topics they want; and there are plans to include a focus group at the Manchester conference on what teachers need. It was noted that organising events for teachers on one day of the conference may be the best way forward; IR has mailbase of 600 nationally, but will target the northwest, particularly Greater Manchester 6th form colleges. There were a number of ideas developing in this area.

F) Given that much of the Development Subcommittee time was addressing conferences, it was agreed to move to the report from the Conference Subcommittee next.

8. Conference Subcommittee (TW reporting)

A) TW circulated a report from the Aberystwyth Conference (lodged with the minutes). The most important item of note was there was a small surplus of £759, with further monies possible if UWA is able to collect some outstanding fees.

B) TW reported that the Manchester conference dates are confirmed as 15-18 April, and the planning of the event is well underway, including accommodation, meals, social events calendar, and confirmation of various plenary speakers. There are a lot of good venues available.

C) TW reported that the link with TSA at Aberystwyth had generally run smoothly, with the TSA hosting the reception at the National Library. However, it was felt that from the Manchester conference onwards, TSA members might propose individual sessions and full panels on the transatlantic and be more integrated into the BAAS conference as a whole. The TSA would still be able to hold an AGM if they so desired. HM noted that TSA will be holding their own conference this year at Dundee. TW is to write to Alan Dobson.

D) TW confirmed the Thursday-Sunday dates for the 2005 conference (14-17 April) and the venue: Robinson College. The initial contact person is Ann Holton but a permanent liaison officer will be named shortly. JV and SW have plans to meet the new person to discuss 50th anniversary plans, and TW reiterated his gratitude for JV’s future involvement with the Conference Subcommittee.

E) TW reported that a proforma call for conference venues for 2006 had gone out at the beginning of the summer, but that only a few people had been in contact about it.

F) Finally, TW recorded official thanks to Mike McDonnell for all his work on the subcommittee, and wished him luck in his new position at the University of Sydney. MM’s role was widely acknowledged as key over the last several years, and colleagues expressed both thanks and regret that he was leaving.

G) SC asked that thanks be minuted to TW for an excellent conference at Aberystwyth.

9. Publications Subcommittee (JB reporting)

A) JB reported that Ken Morgan had offered an email report of BRRAM activities, noting that further instalments of the Liverpool Customs Bills of Entry will be released in the remainder of this year. The two projects currently receiving attention are the Nathaniel Phillips Papers and the Edward Long Collection. Microfilming of the Phillips Papers (Slebech Collection) at the National Library of Wales will probably begin in late October or early November; KM is planning a visit there soon. Some additional manuscripts have been deposited at the Merseyside Maritime Museum that supplement the existing BRRAM on the Davenport Papers–the records of a Liverpool slave-trading firm. These are currently being catalogued, though it may take another year before it is completed. KM also reported that the Merseyside Maritime Museum has agreed to microfilm these documents in due course, so that they can be added to the existing set of microfilms of the Davenport Papers. In addition, Prof. David Richardson (University of Hull) has agreed to revise his introductory pamphlet to take account of the newly deposited material. Attached to KM’s report was an email from Paul Knights asking that BAAS send out a call to members who know of good collections that might be microformed. The Committee agreed. GT is to contact Paul Knights.

B) JB discussed an emailed report on EUP from CS. Mark Newman’s book on civil rights currently being revised. Niall Palmer’s book on the 20s was approved at the last editorial board meeting. SN added that a new book on Vietnam, by Mark Taylor, arrived last week, co-published with Alabama. JV noted that copublishing agreements were not always clear to authors, so SN agreed to notify EUP of this, asking them to make sure authors are aware of the co-publishing arrangements.

C) JB noted that the next deadline for ASIB is 15 Jan. GT is to liaise with SM about the conference programme and with JV about the Prague conference details.

D) JB reported PD, SC, HM, and JB attended the last editorial meeting of JAS on 26 September. Issues arising from that meeting included the fact that BAAS subscribers to JAS have fallen yet again, to 70 (from a high in 1995 of 212). CUP are not unduly worried about this fall, noting that electronic versions of journals have had an impact on individual subscriptions across the board. More worrying was the fall in submissions, down to 77 this year from a high point of c130; this fall follows the RAE. There was a general discussion about JAS and the need to be more proactive in seeking contributors, including the use of “in print” calls for contributions, though this needs to be done carefully.

E) JB initiated a discussion stemming generally from PD’s written proposal regarding a role for JAS in the celebration of the 50th anniversary. The discussion evolved to cover the possibility of BAAS members receiving JAS as part of their membership. Any such change would have implications for subscription costs, and the committee would need to discuss with CUP what options might be available. Any subscription change would have to be fully costed, and to be presented to the AGM for approval by members. It was agreed to ask PD to contact CUP to explore the possibilities, and to report back in due course

F) JB also reported that JK had found it difficult to secure reviewers for JAS. A new page has been added to the website with books for review, which may alleviate the problem.

G) JB reported that the website had had a few difficulties over the last few days, because of server problems. This was because it is now run on the Smartchoice server, which has subsequently been taken over by Names.co.uk. This move has meant that some links have not been updated, but that it will be back up and running soon. GT reported that the newspaper database now included the John Rylands archive, and that this important link would be given more prominence, with clearer signalling of where to look for archival material. Other new links include the form for book reviewers for JAS, and links for postgraduates and other academics to submit details of their research.

H) GT raised issue of US Studies On Line; a special issue will be devoted to the Glasgow conference. GT feels that US Studies On Line needs a new editor, though he is willing to continue to help with the web development. Catherine Morley agreed to take this role on. The Committee offered thanks.

I) GT also raised the issue of new disability legislation which is now in effect regarding websites. IR noted that there is a new 48 page guideline for disability accessibility, which GT has agreed to check out.

10. Libraries and Resources Subcommittee (IR)

A) IR began his report by praising the newspaper database, noting that a number of organisations have added links to it, including the US Embassy. Kevin Halliwell is adding further issues, including Irish collections, to the database.

B) IR reported that the Library and Resources subcommittee are in the early stages of planning a conference in July to be held a location yet to be confirmed, though Rothermere has been proposed (John Pinfold to confirm) for academics and postgraduates, on the use of artefacts in American Studies research: particular focus will be on Native Americans, immigration, slavery and elections. Two people have already been identified (including PD on elections) and Tony Tibbles, curator of Transatlantic Slavery museum. IR is following up other leads. JV suggested contacting Mick Gidley.

C) IR noted that the subcommittee is already discussing the BLARS contribution to the 2005 conference; John Pinfold came up with idea of putting together an exhibition on the changing nature of library technology.

D) IR reported that the libraries newsletter has been delayed, though Duncan Heyes has finished the editorial work. David Foster in the American Studies Centre has now joined committee and is working with Duncan Heyes to revamp the content and cover design of the newsletter. In addition, they are also looking for new members.

11. EAAS (JV reporting)

A) JV reported that she is in discussion with EAAS about the faulty distribution of the EAAS newsletter and problems with address labels. She will report back on this issue at the next meeting.

B) JV is chasing the Graz proceedings and list of EAAS chairs.

C) JV reminded Committee members of the dates of the Prague conference (2-5 April 2004) and that the 2005 meeting will be held at Cambridge, though there are logistic issues yet to be resolved, in particular finding some method of funding Eastern European members to come to Cambridge.

12. Fiftieth Anniversary Planning

A) JV noted that much of the planning information had already been discussed in the Development and the Conference subcommittees. Several points were reiterated, and it was agreed that this item still needs a place on the minutes.

B) JV reminded colleagues that she agreed to coordinate the 50th anniversary celebrations, but was not planning to organise it all by herself.

13. Any Other Business

A) NS reported that a BBC producer from Radio 4 had been in touch about BAAS’s 50th anniversary, so this may lead to more coverage of the event.

B) JB again offered many thanks to MM for his work over last 5 years; TW will let MM know that we consider his departure a sad loss for the British American Studies community, though of course we wish him the best in Australia.

C) JV noted that she had an obituary for Philip Taylor from Hull, which precipitated a discussion of obituaries appearing in ASIB. It was agreed that SN would ask a colleague from Glasgow to write an obituary for Esmond Wright, that PD was likely to wish to write one for Mary Eccles, and that Susan Manning could be approached to write one for Kate Fullbrook. GT is to get in touch with each of them individually.

D) IR asked for help in locating an expert in portraiture to help with a query from Antwerp re: 18th American portraiture. SN recommended Mark Pachter of the National Portrait Gallery in Washington.

14. Date of next meeting

Friday 9 January 2004, at the US Embassy in London.

Dr Heidi Macpherson, Secretary.
Phone (office): (01772) 893039
]Fax: (01772) 892924
email: hrsmacpherson@uclan.ac.uk

BAAS Executive Committee Meeting: June 28, 2003

Minutes of the 235th meeting of the Executive Committee, held at Rothermere Institute, Oxford on June 28, 2003.

1. Present

P Davies (Chair), H Macpherson (Secretary), N Selby (Treasurer) J Beer (Vice Chair), J Davies, J Kleinberg, S MacLachlan, C Morley, I Ralston, I Scott, C Smith, G Thompson, P Thompson, J Virden

Apologies: S Castillo, K Cooper, S Newman, T Woods

2. Minutes of the Previous Meetings.

NS noted typographical corrections on the minutes from the last meeting as well as the minutes of the AGM. These were corrected. The minutes were then accepted as a true record and will now be posted on the website.

3. Matters Arising

Any actions noted on the last minutes which have yet to be completed will be appended to the action list below.

4. Chair’s Business

A) The chair thanked the RAI and Peter Thompson for hosting us in Oxford and welcomed the new members, including co-opted members, to the Committee. Kath Cooper has agreed to be co-opted for another year, having first been co-opted in 2000. The Committee may wish to start thinking about other teachers’ involvement from 2004 onwards.

B) Chair’s activities since the last meeting included sending thank you letters to retiring Committee members and to the Aberystwyth conference organizers; he also sent a letter informing Robert Cook of his Miller Prize. Allan Lloyd Smith of the Miller Centre is working on revising the wording of the eligibility criteria for the Miller Prize.

C) On behalf of BAAS, PD has attended the following meetings or events: ALSISS Committee of Academicians; the retirement reception for Prof. Gary McDowell (IUSS); the IUSS Board meeting. PD reported that the Institute is on going and still planning events and a full programme, but no part-time students are being recruited for next year, only full time ones. There was some concern expressed over the future of the Institute, but JB noted her involvement with the review of the Institute, and assured the Committee that the terms of reference for the review are positive.

D) PD also attended UEA conference “In Our Time”; the Regional Studies Association conference; the International American Studies Association conference in Leiden; a reception at the residence of Glyn Davies, a Minister at the US Embassy; the Centre for American Studies lecture at the University of Leicester; the “Challenges to the Modern Presidency” conference at the British Library; and the Bryant Lecture at the BL. He was unable to attend Fulbright reception.

E) PD has received correspondence from Alan Dobson, who emailed to thank BAAS for its help in facilitating the Transatlantic Studies Association’s participation at Aberystwyth conference.

F) PD reported that the ASIE which announced the 2004 conference workshops is now out. JV is arranging for corrections to be made to the BAAS entry. A number of Committee members noted that they had yet to receive their copies. It is likely that this is because of problems with the address labels. PD and JV reminded the Committee that the information is available on the new EAAS website.

G) PD reported that the free distribution of EJAC to members has started.

H) PD reported that a PhD student has asked for advice on postgraduate supervision, which he circulated to the Committee. Committee members should send suggestions to him of possible names.

I) Dates for next conference have been passed to CUP and acknowledged.

J) PD circulated an announcement regarding a meeting for a new umbrella Area Studies organization to be held 5 November in London.

K) PD received an update from UCN, which reported that American Studies staff there will be located in the new School of Social Sciences. Thanks were extended to BAAS for their intervention on UCN’s behalf.

L) PD received an update from Peter Boyle regarding the progress of the students who are currently undertaking the BAAS graduate assistantships at the Universities of Virginia and New Hampshire. The reports for each student were very positive, and the scheme will need to be taken forward again, with awards presented at the next BAAS conference. HM and JV will once again be involved in the interview process. There was some discussion about interview procedures. HM to contact Peter Boyle.

M) PD reported that the organization of a proposed Pan American Teaching Conference has been delayed. There is a postponed LTSN conference that might feed into it. The issue is ongoing.

N) PD discussed the AHRB call for bids on ring-fenced awards. JB reported on the initiative. 19^th century American literature doesn’t have sufficient scholarship, and 18/19^th century American history are under-researched. JB will put together the “Expression of interest” form, with the title, “American Literature and History in the long 19^th Century”, and a 150 word outline of the subject area. There was a general discussion regarding the nomination of four evaluators, who could give impartial views of subject area, but who were not immediately connected to the subject area. Particular consideration was given to a number of individuals JB and PD to progress.

O) PD announced new appointments: Richard Godden has been made Chair at Sussex University, and Edward Ashbee has been made Associate Professor in American Studies at the Copenhagen Business School. Congratulations were extended to them.

5. Secretary’s Business

A) The Secretary circulated a paper on details of correspondence received, including the following: Notices of Academy of Social Sciences AGM and minutes, and various reports from them, including: Honorary Treasurer report; Honorary Secretary report; Annual Report; Report to the Director; two Summary reports; Interim Summary of Results; and Summary of Key Findings; The Academy of Social Sciences “One Voice” Response to Current Debates paper; The White Paper Response from the Academy of Social Sciences. HM also received and circulated monthly e-circulars from the UK/US Centre and minutes of the 9 January AHRB Subject Group meeting.

B) HM reported that since the last meeting, she had updated BAAS records with annual surveys and had updated the external examiners’ list. She intends to send another mailbase notice to ensure that people are aware of the list.

C) HM reported that she had consulted the Charity Commission regarding the restriction of STA awards to BAAS members. The Committee studied the correspondence received. It was not deemed necessary to change the Constitution, but it was decided that BAAS will state that preference for such awards may be given to BAAS members. The guidance notes will therefore need to be revised.

D) HM noted that actions taken on behalf of BAAS since the last meeting also included updating the Charity records at the end of May with the names of the new trustees.

E) HM received an inquiry from a member of the public regarding a particular coin issued in California in the 19^th century; IS agreed to investigate the matter.

F) HM reported that Barry Cooper, a History teacher at Epsom College, had enquired about cultural tours of the USA; IR agreed to contact him in relation to this.

G) HM noted that she had acted as the BBC contact point for a new programme on America in May 2003.

6. Treasurer’s Business

A) The treasurer reported that current membership is as follows: fully paid up: 438, including 125 postgraduates; still to renew: 168, including 77 who still needed to renew their Standing Orders. NS will do a mailshot to all non-renewed members this summer.

B) NS reported that BAAS balances are as follows: Current: £2687; Conference: £6827; Lib. Res.: £1101; Ed. Dev.: £2302; STA: £23,270; Deposit: £12,659. Total £48,846. (RBS Jersey £14,548).

C) NS circulated a draft letter requesting a £10,000 grant from the US Embassy to help with the conference. The letter included a full breakdown of costs. The Committee approved it.

D) NS reported his correspondence with Elizabeth Clapp regarding the MBAAS account. There is a balance of £276.96 in that account, which should be forwarded to BAAS shortly. NS is pursuing this.

E) NS is still pursuing the Halifax (old Leeds) Building Society Account. The latest information is that in February 1996, the account gained interest of £11.27. NS is to contact Alun Munslow to see if he closed the account.

7. Development Subcommittee (PD reporting)

A) PD chaired the subcommittee in SN’s absence. The subcommittee recommended that BAAS award £200 to ASRC at Liverpool John Moores towards their annual conference, which was agreed by the full Committee. Deborah Appleton at Glasgow, who is organizing the BAAS postgraduate conference, sent a letter requesting funds. PD reported that our standard grant is £100, but that we need a full outline of costings. JB suggested that we raise the standard grant to £150 for postgraduate conferences. This was agreed. Susan Manning sent a full application for the “Across the Great Divide” Symbiosis Conference requesting £150 to subsidize postgraduate attendance. This was agreed. The Eccles Centre made a request for £100 for a conference for teachers on 21 October (£50 each to two UK speakers). This was agreed. The Institute of US Studies sent information about a postgraduate conference to be held 25 October, with the request that BAAS publicizes the cfp. This was agreed; information is to go out on the Website and on the mailbase.

B) PD reported on the progress in relation to the Ambassador’s Award publicity. Several draft posters were circulated to the subcommittee; JV will be working on taking that forward. The posters also advertise the STAs and BAAS essay prize, and BAAS membership.

C) Prior to the meeting, SN circulated an email regarding BAAS’s response to the Roberts’ Report. He then drafted a response, but would like more input. PT remarked that we had moved into a “defence of subject” position. JK agreed that this position was important, especially for small subjects. PD and SN to move this forward.

D) Under AOB, IR gave an update on ASRC at LJM, noting the need to defend and develop the Centre.

8. Publications Subcommittee (JB reporting)

A) JB noted that she had received a full report on BRRAM activities from Ken Morgan, who had attended the morning meeting. The Barham papers project had been put on hold because Lord Clarendon, the owner of the manuscripts, had refused permission for the microfilming. The Edward Long project was advancing and may be released in mid-2004, and the Nathaniel Phillips papers have now been contracted. BRRAM hopes to contract a project on the US Civil War but has no specific commitments as of yet. The Walt Whitman sales had been disappointing. BRRAM hopes to increase its library sales. Anyone with ideas of contacts should get in touch with KM. KM will write up a notice for the ASIB. JK is to look into advertising rates for JAS.

B) JB reported that the EUP series is going well. CS circulated a handout on sales and production. The Taylor book is in production, and books by Newman and Hultheser are under contract. Books by Kaufman and West have both been approved, and a number of proposals are in various stages of readiness. There was a request from EUP about a discount and subscription system for BAAS paperbacks, with a proforma distributed to members. The meeting agreed to allow this venture to proceed; CS to take forward.

C) JB reported that the next ASIB deadline is 15 August. The current issue has fewer conference reports than had been hoped for, but another call will go out soon. There had been a number of requests for advertising flyers for the next issue.

D) JB noted that submissions to JAS are somewhat down. JK reported that this may have something to do with the increasingly segmented nature of the market, with new journals appearing in specialized areas. It was agreed that editorial board members and BAAS Committee members should make approaches to individuals if they hear a good paper—and encourage them to submit it to JAS. JK is reported that she is writing to all those who were invited to “revise and resubmit” their articles to encourage them to do so.

E) JB asked colleagues to suggest names for the 2005 JAS lecture. The 2004 lecturer will be Prof. Phil Morgan from Johns Hopkins University, a specialist in slavery, who was strongly recommended by the Early Americanists. The title of his paper will be announced shortly. The 2003 lecture by Emily Budick was well received; Prof. Budick is in the process of revising it for submission to JAS.

F) JB reported on the progress of the “Theses in American Studies” project. It has been decided that the most appropriate site of publication for this is now the spring issue of the ASIB; GT is to draft a notice for the next issue, asking students or supervisors to send information on work in progress and recently completed PhDs. CM reported that IUSS is also working on a similar project. GT is to liaise with them.

G) JB closed by noting that the web page is running smoothly, and asked for thanks to be minuted to our Webster, Graham Thompson.

9. Conference Subcommittee (JD reporting)

A) Tim Woods sent his apologies, and Jude Davies chaired the subcommittee in his absence. JD reported that feedback on the 2003 BAAS conference at Aberystwyth had been positive. JD is to act as contact point for all feedback, positive or negative, which can feed into subsequent conferences.

B) JD reported on progress in relation to the 2004 conference at MMU. Because of the necessity of hotel accommodation at £50 a night, costs will go up. However, all rooms are double rooms, thus allowing for sharing and the lowering of costs. Current figures are as follows: full residential single occupancy, £275; full residential double occupancy, £200; non-residential £125. The situation for postgraduates has yet to be finalized, but it is proposed that there be an upfront discount, rather than a later refund, at a set number (48 subsidies of £100 each, making the rate for postgraduates who share accommodation £100).

C) There had been a full email discussion of proposed dates for the 2005 Cambridge conference, and concern over the fact that the proposed dates were in term time for many universities. It was suggested that the dates be moved to 14-17 April, a Thursday-Sunday format. The Committee approved this decision; TW to liaise with Cambridge.

D) JD reported that TW is still consulting with Nottingham to check whether they still want to organize the 2006 conference. There has also been a bid from Sussex. PD reported that interest has also been expressed by Leicester, Kent and Worcester, and a formal call should go out on email, as per the actions list of the last minutes.

E) PD asked about paper offers for MMU. Numbers are low at the moment, but this is to be expected. Further advertising is required. NS is to include a CFP in the next membership drive.

10. Libraries and Resources Subcommittee (IR reporting)

A) IR reported that the next subcommittee meeting is on Thursday, 3 July, at John Moores. At this meeting, Victoria Roberts and Pippa Harris are coming up to talk about the Portal Project at the IUSS.

B) IR noted that he and Duncan Heyes at BL have discussed extending the content of newsletter. They have solicited articles from librarians in US, and have decided to include book reviews from the American Studies Resource Centre.

C) IR reported that the US newspaper database continues to be successful, and that the US Embassy has put links to it. Other good projects are following on, which will hopefully involve IUSS and Eccles Centre.

D) PD reported that he would write a letter regarding the consolidation of Senate House and other smaller libraries’ collections.

11. EAAS (JV reporting)

A) JV circulated the EAAS 2004 conference workshop list. She will get in touch with EAAS about problems with the newsletter, and send copy for the BAAS website. JV reported that the EAAS website is much improved.

B) JV noted that the 2005 meeting in Cambridge is going ahead, and she will coordinate details with TW and the Cambridge conference organizer.

C) JV reported that the Graz proceedings have been delayed. In addition, the “Stemming the Mississippi” issue of the European journal has been delayed, and Marc Chenetier is no longer the French representative for EAAS.

D) JD asked for an update on the EAAS-IASA relations, which generated a full discussion. Although there are some issues to work through, PD reported that IASA is not an association of associations, but an individual membership association, and thus should not be considered competition. The IASA Conference was good, PD reported, but different from EAAS, with 37 countries represented, many of them outside Europe. IASA serves a different but overlapping constituency. IASA may now have their next conference in 2 years, not as planned in 3 years, in order to avoid overlapping with EAAS.

12. Fiftieth Anniversary Planning (JV reporting)

A) JV suggested that BAAS co-opt Sue Wedlake onto 50^th anniversary committee, as well as the Cambridge organizer; the Committee agreed.

B) JV reported that Louis Billington was pleased to be asked to put together a paper on members’ interests, as had been suggested at the last meeting.

C) JV discussed plans initiated by Dan Sreebny for a 50^th anniversary CD, and SN’s plans for a survey of BAAS membership. It was decided to send the survey out with the membership list. IR mentioned the PR possibilities, and the fact that the BBC might want to report on that.

13. Any Other Business

A) JB raised the issue of Saturday meetings, noting that professional activities such as BAAS meetings should be held during the working week. In addition, most of our meetings occur outside of teaching times, though it was noted that this might be an issue for the teacher representative. It was agreed to pilot a mid-week meeting from the January meeting.

B) The Committee expressed its thanks to Gillian Fullilove of the RAI who spent the day at the Institute in order to facilitate our meeting.

14. Date of next meeting

There was a long discussion about possible dates and venues. The two main options were 27 September at a London Venue or 4 October at MMU HM subsequently conducted an email poll, and by majority vote, it was decided that the next meeting would be held 4 October at MMU.

Dr Heidi Macpherson, Secretary.

Phone (office): (01772) 893039 or 893020
Fax: (01772) 892924

email: hrsmacpherson@uclan.ac.uk

Action List (please refer to minutes. Does not include information referred to other subcommittees for actioning)

BAAS 2003 Annual General Meeting

Minutes of the 2003 Annual General Meeting, held at University of Wales, Aberystwyth on April 13, 2003.

Elections:
Treasurer – Nick Selby (to 2006)
Committee – Janet Beer (to 2006), Ian Scott (to 2006), Tim Woods (to 2006)

The Treasurer circulated a draft of the audited accounts, which was approved. There was limited discussion regarding the old Leeds Building Society Account. NS reported that he is still attempting to trace the account. PD reported that BAAS has rationalized accounts significantly over the last several years. NS asked members with information on the account to contact him directly. Steve Mills asked NS to contact members who hadn’t returned giftaid forms.

The Chair provided a comprehensive report of the year’s activities for American Studies as a discipline. The report included mention of:

1. Media enquiries on American Studies topics, ranging from the BBC to The Malay Straits Times, as well as coverage of American Studies in the THES (including ‘Don’s Diary’)

2. American Studies under threat at Keele and BAAS’s vigorous response

3. The passing of key American Studies colleagues, including three former chairs: Frank Thistlethwaite, Dennis Welland, and Peter Parish. The chair was also sad to report the deaths of Alan Conway and Duncan MacLeod.

4. Consultation with professional and academic bodies, including the Commission on the Social Sciences, the Arts and Humanities Research Board, the Higher Education Funding Council, the British Academy, the Economic and Social Science Research Council, the QAA, and the Standing Conference on Arts and Social Science

5. The launch of the Area Studies Network

6. Several conferences and projects, including the AMATAS project, the EAAS conference in 2002, the BAAS postgraduate conference at Sheffield.

7. The short term award and other prizes, to be announced at the Conference Dinner

8. Promotions, appointments, and other successes for BAAS members

9. The success of journals related to American Studies, particularly the Journal of American Studies, and American Studies On Line, with newly or soon to be launched journals such as Comparative American Studies, Journal of Transatlantic Studies, and Atlantic Studies: Literary, Cultural and Historical Perspectives on Europe, Africa and the Americas.

10. Thanks to the members of BAAS who volunteer their time, particularly on the BAAS Committee. Special thanks were extended to the Treasurer, Secretary, and subcommittee chairs, as well as Janet Beer, Mike McDonnell, Celeste-Marie Bernier, and Nick Selby whose current terms of office were completed (JB and NS were subsequently re-elected to their positions).

11. A welcome to the Transatlantic Studies Association who joined BAAS in Aberystwyth.

12. Thanks to the US Embassy for support of postgraduate attendance, STAs and other proposals.

13. Final thanks to the organizers of the conference, including the conference subcommittee chair, Mike McDonnell, the conference convenor, Tim Woods, his colleagues on the faculty at Aberystwyth, and Moira Shearer and the Aberystwyth conference office

The Secretary announced that the Committee wished the membership to consider whether we should bring forward a formal amendment to the Constitution to restrict BAAS prizes (including STAs and Essay prizes) to BAAS members. The Secretary stressed that an amendment could not be proposed for this year, but only for the 2004 meeting, and that the Committee, having had long discussions about the issue, wished to gauge the full membership’s feelings on the matter. Arguments for and against the restriction were both expressed. Arguments for restrictions included ensuring that our members benefited from our generosity; arguments against included the fact that all research in American Studies strengthens the discipline, whether or not the researchers were formal members of the organization. A proposal to restrict the prizes was passed by a 2 to 1 majority. The Secretary will discuss an appropriate wording of the amendment with Charities Commission and will bring forward the formal amendment next year.

Conferences: Mike McDonnell thanked Tim Woods and Moira Shearer and the administrative staff at Aberystywyth for their efforts at organizing the 2003 conference, and he extended an invitation to members to give feedback on the conference, directed to the Secretary, Heidi Macpherson. Next year’s conference, organized by Sarah MacLachlan, will be held at Manchester Metropolitan University from 15 to 18 April. The following year, Cambridge will host the 50th anniversary conference. The Committee is currently looking for future bids for future conferences, with Nottingham a possibility for 2006. The Chair of the Conference subcommittee will circulate announcement inviting bids. MM closed by thanking the association for an enjoyable three years on the committee.

Publications: Janet Beer gave a summary of the past year’s activities within the publications subcommittee. The EUP BAAS paperback series, edited by Simon Newman and Carol Smith, with assistance from Nicola Carr at EUP, continues to produce good quality paperbacks. The editors are always keen to see new proposals. This year also saw a new editor of BRRAM, Ken Morgan. BRRAM has a higher profile on the webite and a number of important projects underway. Members who are aware of good archives should contact Ken Morgan, Carolyn Masel, or Janet Beer with that information. The Journal of American Studies has a new cover, a new reviewers’ database, and two new members on the editorial board, Professor David Seed, and Professor Walter Hoelbling. The website has been redesigned, with many new links and resources, and is currently receiving up to 120 hits a day. ASIB, edited by Graham Thompson, continues to be a source of important information, and US Studies On Line has recently published a selection of papers from the last BAAS postgraduate conference. JB closed by offering thanks to Jay Kleinberg (editor of JAS), Ken Morgan, Simon Newman, Carol Smith, and Graham Thompson.

Development: Simon Newman reported on the year’s activities, noting the central place of the essay prize and the STA prizes, as well as introducing the new Ambassador’s prize. BAAS has sponsored several conferences, including a schools conference, several postgraduate conferences, and work of the Scottish Association, and welcomes proposals in support of conferences year round. As Chair of the subcommittee, SN responded to the HEFCE review of the RAE. Plans for the 50th anniversary celebration are continuing, and members are urged to contact Jenel Virden with ideas. SN offers thanks to Jude Davies for representing BAAS on the area studies network and LTSN.

Libraries and Resources: Ian Ralston, the new library and resources subcommittee meeting chair, began by thanking Iain Wallace, who has now retired, for his long service to committee. He extended thanks as well to Richard Bennet, Duncan Hayes and Kevin Halliwell. IR reported that the newspapers holdings database on the website (which is also available by link as American Resources Center website) has been a popular resource for American Studies scholars. Looking to next year, he reported that plans exist for a new seminar workshop, directed at lecturers, postgraduates, and librarians. He is also keen to enhance membership of committee. PD reported that the library newsletter is free to members who request it; interested parties should contact Ian Ralston or Nick Selby.

EAAS: Jenel Virden made her first report as EAAS representative. She attended her first EAAS meeting Athens, from 20-23 March for meeting, at no cost to BAAS. Next year’s meeting will be held at the conference in Prague from 2-5 April. One issue for EAAS was the selling of mailing lists, which was a much debated topic. JV also reported that the conference proceedings from Graz is soon to be published. The next EAAS newsletter is in press and should be better than the former one which suffered from deadline problems. The latest newsletter will have the Prague workshops listed, and BAAS members can propose papers to those workshops. The EAAS website and logo are being redesigned. The 2005 meeting will be held in conjunction with the 50th anniversary celebrations at Cambridge; the 2006 venue is still uncertain. The Russian Association has been included in EAAS. As a final note, JV recorded that BAAS members have been successful in putting forward proposals for the Prague conference, with 3 stream lectures and 6 workshop proposals to be chaired or co-chaired by British scholars.

AOB:
1. Jude Davies reported on the AMATAS project for Alan Rice. The project has now finished. Outcomes included the delivery of 23 workshops, a booklet by Neil Campbell, and 2 conferences (one on 9/11 at Winchester May 2002, and one featuring George Ritzer, at UCLAN, in January2003). Copies of the final report of project are available.
2. Sue Wedlake reported that April 2005 is centenary of Senator Fulbright’s birth. The Embassy will be organizing some events, and hopes to link these events to BAAS’s 50th anniversary. Members are invited to contact Sue Wedlake with ideas.
3. BAAS records its thanks again to Tim Woods, Martin Padget, Mike Foley, and Helena Grice for their help in organizing the 2003 conference.

BAAS Executive Committee Meeting: April 11, 2003

Minutes of the 234th meeting of the Executive Committee, held at University of Wales, Aberystwyth on April 11, 2003.

1. Present

P Davies (Chair), H Macpherson (Secretary), N Selby (Treasurer) J Beer (Vice Chair), C-M Bernier, S Castillo, J Davies, J. Kleinberg, M. McDonnell, C Morley, S Newman, C Smith, G Thompson, P Thompson, J Virden

Apologies

Kath Cooper

2. Minutes of the Previous Meetings

These were accepted as a true record.

3. Matters Arising

JV circulated copies of the SCASS Standing Conference on Arts and Social Sciences “one voice ” document response to Roberts’ review on funding for research.

4. Chair’s Business

A) The chair circulated correspondence received, including email from Derrick Murphy, chief examiner in history at A Level, regarding Collins history publications for school, reporting on a series of biographies of Americanists (JFK, LBJ and FDR); an email from Joe Mottershead regarding CUP non-appearance at Aberystwyth (books and journals will be displayed); JB asked that we ensure he diarizes the dates so that this doesn’t happen again, and PD agreed to do so.

B) PD reported that the QAA Higher Quality March 2003 issue refers to having consulted subject associations regarding nominations to Subject Benchmarking advisory group; when challenged, it became clear that they are still consulting CCASA, but this was not successful. Thus they relied on CUDAH to nominate for American Studies. JD wondered if this would open up a discussion for a replacement of CCASA. PD reported that at LTSN there had been a proposal for a replacement. JD reported it is still ongoing and at its early stages, but Maureen Perrie is on board. The proposal has our support in principle.

C) PD reported that he has responded to the British Academy circular on emerging and endangered subjects. A letter has previously been circulated to the committee and is available in the records maintained by the Secretary for consultation.

D) PD reported that Howard Temperley has informed him that the memorial service for Frank Thistlethwaite will be at Norwich Cathedral 4 October 2:30pm

E) PD reported that the latest American Studies Library Newsletter (ASLN) was recently circulated

F) The Commission on Social Sciences Report was received and circulated, and will be held by the Secretary. There was substantial coverage in the THES

G) John Canning, academic coordinator for Area Studies for LTSC, sent email announcement of new publication, ATLAS: Area Studies Project Bulletin, on pedagogy of Area Studies, disseminate news, publicize events. The Committee ensured its support. John Canning’s email suggesting co-sponsoring a Pan-American Teaching Issues conference with the LTSC and BAAS; this conference would include Canadian, Caribbean, Latin American and American Studies. PD asked for responses from Committee. There was general consensus that this was a good idea. PD mentioned that the BL may be available as a venue. MM to chase up through conference sub-com.

H) PD reported on initiatives being taken by the School of American Studies at Keele, and on developments at University College Northampton. Related correspondence is filed with the minutes.

I) PD announced the following promotions, appointments, and items about AS in the news: Neil Wynn has been appointed Professor of American History, University of Gloucestershire; Douglas Tallack has been appointed Chair of Universitas 21 steering group; Jenel Virden has been appointed to the Board of Examiners for ESRC Training Board. Sue Currell published an article on teaching AS with IT in the 28.03.03 edition of the THES.

J) The chair offered his sincere thanks to all members of the committee and the subcommittees for their work, contributions, and support over the last year.

5. Secretary’s Business

A) The Secretary circulated a paper on details of correspondence received, including the following: CCUE email Circulars form March and April; Bulletin and leaflet for UCL College Art Collections; invitation to 9 April Conference for ACSS regarding the response to White paper; Rothermere Institute circulars.

B) HM noted that actions taken on behalf of BAAS since the last meeting included responding to requests for mailing lists and other BAAS information, updating records with annual surveys, and compiling a list of potential external examiners. This list is slowly taking shape.

C) The Secretary reported that these minutes, after approval, will be posted on the BAAS website in the interests of transparency. In some cases, reserved items will not be posted but will be kept in the official records that the Secretary maintains.

6. Treasurer’s Business

A) The treasurer reported that current membership is as follows: fully paid up, 421; 176 still have yet to renew or change standing orders. 75 of those are still standing order people. NS will place a copy of information regarding this in conference packs or on the conference stand, as well as gift aid forms.

B) NS reported that BAAS balances are as follows: current account £1,064; main deposit account £18,073; conference account £11,127; library resources £451; education and development account, £2,298; STA account, £23,356 for a total of £56,369. There is also a total of around £ 14,500 in the off shore account. NS reported that the accountant raised some concerns about our level of funds and asked NS to make it clearer that BAAS is not running a surplus. NS assured him that the surplus, around £10,000, is balanced by embassy grants. The accountant suggested earmarking money on reserve for specific projects to clarify our position. NS has thus earmarked: £4,000 for web gateway project for last year and £1800 for purchase of new computer. The Library Resources Account is diminishing, so NS transferred £1200 into earmark fund for that, and £3000 for 50th anniversary celebrations. In addition, he gave the accountant details of how embassy monies break down. JK said we should make clear we are building up an endowment fund for the STA. SN enquired about giftaid revenue, which NS reported will go through the STAs.

C) NS reminded HM and PD that they needed to sign the Final accounts.

D) NS reported that postgraduates or teachers eligible for the Embassy bursary need to fill in the appropriate forms and return them to him by 1 June. Total bursary is likely to be about £80, but it depends on numbers who claim. CM to help

7. Development Subcommittee (SN reporting)

A) SN announced that the new Ambassador’s award was advertised in the conference programme, and that BAAS has received a significant amount of money from the Embassy for publicity. BAAS can also publicize our existing awards and STAs with the new award. SN asked for suggestions for posters, etc. SN reported that he had also budgeted for a £100 stipend for judges for these awards and suggested that we combine our current panels and this new award. A possible combination was for STA and the undergraduate award to be judged by the same people, with the BAAS essay prize and postgraduate award being judged by a second group. After much discussion, it was agreed to reserve a decision on this until we have more information regarding entry figures.

B) SN reported that the deadline for the award is early January. It will be supported for one year in the first instance.

C) SN noted that there were 7 entries for the postgraduate essay prize from 4 universities and he offered thanks to judges. Exceptionally, the prize was given to two applicants because the judges felt each was equally worthy. For the STA awards, there were 30 applicants, from 17 universities. The Peter Parish award was given for the first time. In total, there are 4 named awards of £ 500 pounds Winners will be announced at the conference dinner. JV suggested a grid to decide ways of judging, with selection criteria, and agreed to email a version to SN for discussion. The Committee was reminded that judges can be chosen from the full BAAS membership.

8. Publications Subcommittee (JB reporting)

A) JB reported that the BAAS paperback series continues to go well, with a good flow of proposals and completed manuscripts. The call for papers was successful and may be repeated, with reminders regarding the names of the new joint editors.

B) JB thanked GT for ensuring that BRRAM (British Records Relating to America on Microform) had a higher profile on website. She reported that many projects are underway, and that Ken Morgan has completed his first year as editor. KM will visit the National Library of Wales in Aberystwyth in April to secure agreement to microfilm the Phillips Papers in the Slebech collection for 2004.

C) JB reported that Professor David Seed and Professor Walter Hoelbling had been invited to join the editorial board of JAS. She also noted that copies of the reviewers’ database were in the conference pack and on the website. There is currently a good flow of articles, but JAS always welcomes more. There’s a new cover from this issue.

D) JB reported that the Website has been redesigned with access to a number of sites, including US newspapers databases. The new look has made it more popular; between April and September, the site averaged 65-70 visitors a day. Currently, it averages over 120, with the resources page the most popular. This year, conference reports can be submitted directly to the website.

E) JB noted that US Studies On Line is thriving and this year has arranged for publication of selected papers from BAAS postgraduate conference.

F) JB recorded thanks to GT for successfully editing ASIB. JV asked why lists of past chairs were no longer included in the front cover. HM agreed to send the list to GT.

9. Conference Subcommittee (MM reporting)

A) MM reported that the 2003 conference had over 200 registered delegates, with more arriving. As predicted, numbers were down for the banquet but the figure was still healthy at 150.

B) MM offered thanks to Tim Woods and Moira Shearer for their efforts, and congratulations to Tim for becoming Dept. of Head recently and for the arrival of his new baby.

C) MM noted that the CFP for the Manchester conference was in the conference pack and that SM was going to bring fliers to the reception.

D) MM reported that the 2005 conference will go ahead at Cambridge, with Prof. Tony Badger as the contact point at present. Informal contacts have been made by more than one university interested in hosting the conference in 2006 and the next few years. It was decided to publicize a formal call for bids on the email list, the ASIB and the website. MM to liaise with GT and PD.

E) MM noted the absence of a delegates’ list for the conference; this was subsequently produced

F) MM recorded formally for minutes thanks to conference committee and all the local conference organizers he has worked with a Chair.

10. Libraries and Resources Subcommittee

A) There was no report on Libraries subcommittee. Ian Ralston has taken over as Chair and will attend subsequent meetings.

11. EAAS (JV reporting)

A) JV reported that she had attended the EAAS Meeting in Athens on March 20 (not paid for by BAAS funds) and that the next meeting would be held 2-5 April in Prague in conjunction with the conference.

B) JV reported that the EAAS has been approached from Sage and others regarding mailing lists. PD replied that BAAS cannot and does not sell its mailing list, or allow its mailing list to be under the control of others. The address list can only be used under BAAS control, to distribute materials that support members in their profession.

C) JV noted that BAAS has been asked if they want to buy any copies of the conference proceedings of the last EAAS conference from Free University at 25 euros each. After considerable discussion, it was agreed to buy 10 as potential gifts, to be donated to under-resourced libraries, particularly in Eastern Europe, at the discretion of EAAS. JV and NS to coordinate.

D) JV acknowledged that the EAAS committee felt that the last EAAS Newsletter was unsatisfactory. An electronic version was discussed in Athens, but EAAS prefers a paper copy, and notes that the US State Dept. has a printing office in Manila which has printed things for free in the past. EAAS is thus looking into using this facility. JV noted that EAAS wants an up to date list of members in Excel format for the sole purpose of distribution of the imminent edition of American Studies in Europe (NS confirmed this has happened) The deadline for the next newsletter was 6 April, but JV will send information on new members, etc.

E) EAAS is currently working on redesigning their logo and website. JV reported that the Belgian representative, Alain Piette, had told EAAS that they had sought help through the US embassy for redesigning their logo, and JV thought this might be something to remember for the future. In addition, there is a new webmaster, Hans-Jurgen Grabbe of Germany, and a new URL will shortly be in place, www.eaas.eu (currently www.eaas.info)

F) JV reported that the European Journal is ready for printing, based on the theme Mississippi, organized by the French Association. It will be published at 9 euros and includes a photo pack

G) JV reported that EAAS are looking for subsidies for postgraduates for the Prague conference.
H) Future EAAS meetings include Prague 2004 and England for 2005 (to coincide with our 50th anniversary celebrations). 2006 might be in Cyprus co-hosted by Greece and Turkey, or in either Athens or Amsterdam.

I) JV reported that EAAS is looking for EAAS subsidy for targeted members, and that there is a suggestion for US ambassadors to come to EAAS

J) Russian Association for American Studies has been unanimously voted into board of EAAS. EAAS recognises the need to come up with some criteria for working out who can become members.

K) For the Prague conference, there are 26 workshops planned, and Britain has a good presence.

12. Fiftieth Anniversary Planning

A) JV reported that the main news was that the EAAS meeting will be held at Cambridge, as noted above.

B) JV has been approached by Louis Billington who has nearly a full run of pre-journal of American studies booklet with articles (1957-67). He offered to write an article about the research interests of founding members of BAAS, perhaps comparing them to current members’ interests. It was reported that the Birmingham archive has first two years of the leaflet, so it’s possible these could also be included. There was some discussion about plenary lecture possibilities linked to this. JV to take this forward.

13. Any Other Business

A) CM reported that interest in BAAS postgraduate conferences was ongoing, and that she had put out an advertisement for more. Glasgow, Keele, and Oxford all replied with interest. As Glasgow had responded first, it was decided to ask them to take this forward for late autumn (Oct./Nov) 2003, with a schedule produced for subsequent years. CM to liaise with SN.

B) JB asked for confirmation of vacancies on the committee; HM replied that the treasurer position and 3 members were up for election; all incumbents were eligible to stand for re-election.

C) PD reported that Gary McDowell had resigned from the Institute of United States Studies in order to take up a named chair at the University of Richmond. He leaves post on the last day in May.

D) MM reminded members of the Early Americanist lunch on Sunday.

E) JV reported that she has workshop guidelines for EAAS to distribute.

14. Date of next meeting

At Oxford, RAI, 28 June at 11am.

Dr Heidi Macpherson, Secretary.
Phone (office): (01772) 893039 or 893020
Fax: (01772) 892924
email: hrsmacpherson@uclan.ac.uk

Action List (please refer to minutes. Does not include information referred to other subcommittees for actioning)