About

The Center for Presidential History (CPH) at Southern Methodist University exists to research and advance understanding of the history of the American presidency. The CPH pursues this goal primarily through three complementary methods:

Research

The CPH produces and supports research on the history of the American presidency, broadly conceived. Through postdoctoral fellowships, on-campus writing fellowships, and publishing volumes based on its own work, the CPH aims to be a hub for the most current and innovative research in Presidential History.

Public Engagement on Presidential History

The CPH regularly organizes and hosts a wide variety of lectures, conferences, and events, all centered on the theme of Presidential History. These events feature educators, journalists, entrepreneurs, current and former policy makers, and historically-minded professionals of all stripes, united in broadening our understanding of presidential history, and its potential for aiding ongoing contemporary debates for our nation’s future course. CPH also engages the general public through podcasts, internships for SMU and Dallas ISD students, and opportunities for secondary teacher development.

Collective Memory Project

The CPH is conducting the ongoing Collective Memory Project dedicated to enhancing the historical and archival record of various presidential administrations, beginning with the George W. Bush presidency and its times. For these projects, the CPH films, produces, and archives interviews with members of the presidential administration, as well as both public officials and private citizens who played important roles during those administrations. Key subjects this project explores include, but are not limited to: The Election of 2004; The Surge in Iraq; Faith and the Presidency; American Diplomacy: Leaders at Home and Abroad; Judicial Nominations and the Department of Justice; and The First Lady and the East Wing.