Membership

Now could be the most important moment in the development of the study of the history of rhetoric in the United States. The American Society for the History of Rhetoric invites you to join us.

The American Society for the History of Rhetoric (ASHR) has, for more than a quarter century, been a central meeting place for scholars devoted to the historical study of rhetoric. We encourage dialogue across the boundaries of rhetorical theory, criticism and instruction in writing and speaking. And we make connections between rhetoric and other disciplines [poetics, politics, religion, law, etc.], institutions, processes, and events. We believe that you share these passions and these investments, and we want you to be a part of ASHR as we move into our next phase. If you've been a member in the past, now is a great time to renew your commitment to this vital organization.

Benefits of Membership

ASHR Symposium: ASHR has sponsored an annual symposium since 1986. Symposium keynote speakers typically combine leading members of the organization as well as other well-regarded scholars with connecting interests to the symposium theme. Symposia bring together graduate students alongside senior scholars to ensure the vitality of the study of the history of rhetoric for years to come. The smaller, plenary conference format of our annual symposium, in contrast to the large conferences we attend, provides an opportunity for rich intellectual stimulation and discussion among committed historians.

Leadership in Historical Studies of Rhetoric: ASHR has established affiliate status with leading scholarly associations in Communication and Composition. In the past years, an increasing emphasis has been put on the linkage with Rhetoric Society of America (RSA), including workshops and seminars during summer institutes as well themed panels in the convention. The Symposium discussed above is held on the day-and-a-half leading up to RSA’s Biennial Convention, making access easy for many of our members who affiliate with both organizations..

An Intimate Community: ASHR is the core of historical study of rhetoric in the United States, and we are proud to be that. At the same time, we recognize that our community is small: a network of scholars from classics, cultural studies, English, history, linguistics, modern languages, philosophy, and speech communication. That intimacy is also our strength. We create special opportunities for networking and professional development, for mentorship and disciplinary leadership.

The Journal: Perhaps the most important benefit of membership is the journal, Advances in the History of Rhetoric. Under Richard Enos, Robert Gaines, and now Ekaterina Haskins, the journal  is distinguished both by the excellence of its contributors and by the range of genres it publishes: innovative research in the history of rhetoric, translations of historical texts, and scholarly dialogue in the Collocutio section, as well as interdisciplinary work in rhetorical criticism, theory, and pedagogy. The journal will be published twice a year by electronic subscription, and the print form of these two editions will be published annually. Advances carries the best work in the historical study of rhetoric into hundreds of libraries internationally.The journal, in both convenient electronic form and elegant print form, is a free benefit of membership

Payment

There is no better time to join ASHR. The graduated annual dues structure makes membership affordable for younger scholars while assuring the sustainability of the organization and its journal into the future through contributions from more established members. We especially encourage long‐term supporters of ASHR to become "Sustaining Members." Please also consider giving charitable contributions to the organization by contacting an officer, in order to receive a receipt for tax deductions receipts in donating to our 501(c)3. No matter the stage of your career, there may be no better time to join ASHR. As we engage in a new stage of growth, we have been reminded of what we value most about our organization.

One year of membership in the society includes subscription to the society's annual publication, Advances in the History of Rhetoric, (with free access online), and notification and registration to all ASHR-sponsored events. If you have any questions, please contact membership coordinator, Kathleen Lamp.

Membership rates:

Graduate students - $20

Instructors & Lecturers - $30

Assistant Professors - $40

Associate Professors - $50

Full Professors - $60

Sustaining Members  - $75

Emeritus Professors - $35

Five-Year Membership - $200 (New Rate! - save up to $20 each year over the normal rates)

Memberships can be paid on paypal. To mail your membership payment, please print out this form and send the form and a check to:

Kathleen S. Lamp

Assistant Professor, Rhetoric

Department of English

Box 870302

Arizona State University

Tempe, AZ 85287-0302

Either way, to sign up for membership, please complete the Membership and Subscription Form below and click ‘Submit.’