You are here

Larry J. Hackman Research Residency FAQs

What research projects are eligible for support?

A wide range of research topics is eligible as long as the proposed project requires the use of records held by the New York State Archives and focuses on some aspect of New York State history, government or public policy. Review the list of previously awarded projects or, for more information, contact the New York State Archives, Researcher Services, (518) 474-8955; archref@nysed.gov.

What records are eligible to be included in my proposed project?

Any of the records held by the New York State Archives in Albany, NY are eligible to be included. Not eligible for support is research in collections held by the New York State Library or New York State Museum, or by other archives, libraries, or local governments located within the State of New York or elsewhere. Proposed projects that rely on records that have been little used and are not available in the Archives’ online “Digital Collections” or in Ancestry.com or on microfilm will receive preference for funding.

What is the application deadline?

Applications must be postmarked or e-mailed by January 15, 2024.

Who can apply?

Applicants from a variety of backgrounds are encouraged to apply for Hackman grants. Previous residents have included academic and public historians, graduate students, independent researchers and writers, and primary and secondary school teachers.

How do I apply?

Applicants may submit the application by email (preferred) or by US Mail. Consult the Guidelines for more information and application forms, or contact Mary Weber at (518) 474-6276; sarahackres@nysed.gov.

May I fax or e-mail my application?

Yes, fax and electronic submission of applications are accepted. However, there must be an original signature on the application before submitting it via email. Applications can be emailed to sarahackres@nysed.gov.

When I am ready to discuss my research topic and the records I propose to use, whom do I contact?

Potential applicants should contact the New York State Archives Researcher Services staff well in advance of completing the application, to discuss their research topic and the records that they propose to use. Contact any reference archivist at (518) 474-8955; archref@nysed.gov.

When will I learn if my application is successful?

Applicants will be notified by April 15, 2024 of the Selection Committee's decision.

If I receive an award, when will I be able to conduct my research?

A residency may begin any time after June 1, 2024, and it must be completed by May 31, 2025.

If my project is selected for an award, when should I expect to receive payment?

All awardees who are U.S. citizens or legal residents will receive a $250 award plus support for eligible  travel-related expenses. Typically, award recipients must submit a start of residency form and the first half payment voucher when they arrive at the New York State Archives to initiate payment. The second half of the award, including the $250 stipend, will be paid upon completion of the research visit, submission of the Resident's Final Report (questionnaire and narrative), and receipt and acceptance of the Final Report.

What if I accept the award and later find myself unable to carry out my research at the New York State Archives?

If you are unable to carry out your research, you must refund to the Trust the first payment you received. The Trust also reserves the right to withhold final payment until research at the Archives has been completed.

How long can my application be?

The application form indicates word limits for various sections. Brevity and clarity are encouraged!

What are the public product requirements of the residency

Residents are expected to publicize results of research through a thesis, dissertation, published article or book, public presentation, website, and/or an article submission to New York Archives magazine (for possible publication).

Where can I make a public presentation?

A public presentation may be made at any academic conference or forum. The annual conference on New York State history is:

Researching New York History Conference held annually in November. The conference is sponsored by The Department of History and the History Graduate Student Organization, University at Albany, SUNY. For more information contact: Department of History, University at Albany - SUNY, 1400 Washington Avenue, Albany, NY 12222; (518) 442-4488; resrchny@albany.edu.

How do I submit an article about the results of my research for possible publication in "New York Archives"?

Contact Editor Josie Madison at (518) 474-6926 for information regarding article submission. Articles should be approximately 1,000 to 1,500 words.

How are the final award amounts determined?

Hackman grants are awarded on the basis of the recommendations of the Selection Committee. The Committee may recommend modifying the applicant's requested amount, based on funds available and assessment of the applicant's plan of work.

Whom do I contact if I have questions about the status of my application, including letters of support?

Send e-mail inquiry to sarahackres@nysed.gov.