The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill stands as a prominent public research university, deeply committed to advancing knowledge through extensive research, rigorous teaching, and vibrant public dialogue. This dedication to scholarship is a cornerstone of its identity and mission. While the university encompasses a wide array of academic disciplines and research initiatives, its commitment to specialized, interdisciplinary study is well-illustrated
by institutions such as the Center for the Study of the American South (CSAS). Established in 1992, the CSAS embodies UNC Chapel Hill's historic role as a premier institution for understanding the complex history, rich culture, and contemporary experiences of the American South, serving as a primary vehicle for regional service and scholarship.
A Hub for Southern Studies
The mission of the Center for the Study of the American South is explicitly defined: to extend the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill's historic role as the world's foremost institution for research, teaching, and public dialogue concerning the American South. This commitment positions the CSAS as a vital resource for scholars, students, and the public interested in the region. The Center's location at 410 East Franklin Street in Chapel Hill places it at the heart of the university community, facilitating its role in fostering intellectual exchange and collaborative projects. Its establishment was a strategic move to consolidate and amplify the university's existing strengths in Southern studies.
The genesis of the CSAS can be traced back to a visionary working group of faculty within UNC's Institute for Research in Social Science (IRSS). Key figures in this initiative included John Shelton Reed, who was the William Rand Kenan Jr. Professor of Sociology and director of IRSS, anthropologist James Peacock, and David Moltke-Hansen, who served as curator of the Southern Historical Collection at UNC's Wilson Library. These scholars recognized the immense value of creating an umbrella organization that could effectively facilitate communication, collaboration, and resource-sharing among faculty and students dedicated to studying the South. Their collective idea was presented to the UNC Board of Governors, which formally established the CSAS in 1992, with John Shelton Reed initially serving as acting director before being succeeded by David Moltke-Hansen.
Fostering Interdisciplinary Research and Dissemination
The primary focus of the Center for the Study of the American South revolves around supporting inter-departmental research within the University of North Carolina and ensuring the widespread dissemination of its findings. This emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted South, drawing insights from various academic fields. The Center actively funds and promotes a diverse range of activities designed to achieve its mission. These initiatives not only support new scholarship but also ensure that research outcomes reach a broader audience, contributing to both academic discourse and public understanding.
One of the most notable activities supported by the CSAS is the publication of the quarterly journal *Southern Cultures*. This journal, identified by its ISSN 1068-8218, serves as a critical platform for scholarly articles, essays, and reviews that explore various aspects of Southern history, culture, and contemporary life. Originally edited by John Shelton Reed and Watson, the journal is now edited by Watson and Jocelyn Neal, an associate professor in UNC's Department of Music. The journal's continued publication under the Center's auspices underscores its dedication to fostering ongoing dialogue and presenting cutting-edge research on the American South. Through such endeavors, the CSAS reinforces UNC Chapel Hill's reputation as a leading institution for regional scholarship, extending its influence far beyond the campus borders and contributing significantly to the national and international understanding of this vital American region.
