UW’s AHC Announces Change in Fiscal Agent for Wyoming History Day

The American Heritage (AHC) at the University of Wyoming has announced an important change in the financial management of Wyoming History Day, a statewide educational initiative that engages middle and high school students in historical research and civics education.

The AHC will no longer work with the Wyoming Historical Society as its nonprofit fiscal agent for the funds Wyoming History Day receives from the Wyoming Legislature. This marks the end of a financial relationship dating back to 1999, when the AHC assumed full administration of Wyoming History Day.

At that time, the Wyoming Historical Society began serving primarily as a “pass-through” agent to the AHC for the state grant funds that support the salary of the state coordinator for Wyoming History Day, who’s an employee of the AHC.

Even though the Wyoming Historical Society played a key role in bringing the national program to Wyoming classrooms in 1979, the AHC has been the sole manager of all aspects of the program for nearly three decades. That work includes securing additional funding beyond the state grant; coordinating volunteers; training and working with teachers and regional coordinators; organizing regional and state contests; mentoring students; and leading Wyoming’s delegation to the National History Day competition.

The decision to move to a new fiscal partner comes after more than two years of administrative issues and financial concerns with the Wyoming Historical Society’s current leadership. The decision ultimately was made by the Wyoming Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources (SPCR). In a letter dated Sept. 10, Deputy Director Sara Sheen states, “SPCR has made the decision to terminate our contractual relationship with (the Wyoming Historical Society).”

“I am sure that SPCR did not make this decision lightly,” AHC Director Paul Flesher says. “But it frees the AHC, as the sole administrator of Wyoming History Day, to partner with organizations that are accountable, responsive and clearly committed to supporting Wyoming students and teachers.”

Despite the transition, the AHC emphasizes it still values Wyoming Historical Society’s past contributions.

“We recognize the important role the Society has played in Wyoming history education,” Flesher adds. “We welcome their continued support of Wyoming History Day through special award sponsorships, and we hope to rebuild a stronger, more transparent partnership in the future.”

The new school year begins a fresh cycle of Wyoming History Day learning, preparation and competition for the students of Wyoming’s middle and high schools. This year’s theme is “Revolution, Reaction, Reform in History” -- an appropriate choice, as 2026 celebrates the 250th anniversary of the nation’s founding.

“The AHC wishes success to all students who undertake a History Day project,” Flesher says.

For more information about Wyoming History Day, visit www.wyominghistoryday.org.