Fellowships at the DC History Center are designed to support the next generation of researchers, storytellers, and advocates for local Washington, DC history. These programs offer financial support, access to workspace, and guidance from experienced professionals, creating an environment where fellows can explore the DC History Center’s collections, pursue original scholarship, and translate their work into publications and public-facing projects.
The Totman Fellowships support emerging scholars of Washington, DC history while increasing awareness of the DC History Center’s collections and resources. Through stipends, dedicated workspace, and mentorship, the fellowships provide scholars with the time, tools, and intellectual community needed to develop original research and share it with a broad public audience. This work advances our mission to deepen understanding of the city’s past in order to connect, empower, and inspire.
Thanks to generous donor support, the DC History Center is pleased to offer two Totman Fellowships for Summer 2026 through Spring 2027: one supporting research on LGBTQ+ history in Washington, DC, and one supporting research related to Black Washington. Intersectional projects that engage one or both areas of focus are strongly encouraged.
Following review and selection by the DC History Center’s University Advisory Group, each selected Fellow will receive a $14,000 stipend over the course of the fellowship year.
The application period for the 2026–2027 Totman Fellowship are now closed.
Totman Fellows — 2026-2027
Patrick Grey explores how freedom seekers transformed Washington, DC, into a place of refuge and helped lay the foundations of Black Washington after the Civil War.
Sam Washington examines a pivotal period in Washington, DC’s fight for Home Rule, highlighting how social and political anxieties shaped the path to self-governance.
Emma examined the experiences of women federal workers in DC during the Lavender Scare of the 1950s.
Morgan Forde’s research supported her dissertation, “A Crisis of Victory: Revisiting Resurrection City.”
Bi’Anncha explored a framework she identifies as “Dispossession by Design.”
Daniel studied Black and Latinx queer religious activism, from Stonewall to the early twenty-first century.
Manuel explored the DC-specific experience and impact of Afro-Puerto Rican scholar Arturo Alfonso Schomburg.
Mariana served as the inaugural Community Outreach Fellow, focused on engagement with DC’s Latino/a/x community.
Tim researched the life and contributions of Josephine Butler (1920-1997), including her role in the DC Statehood movement.
Kristy examined the records and practices of underground queer groups, including Black and Latinx Washingtonians, immigrants, youth, elders, femme people, and artists.