AFS President Jason Baird Jackson Reflects on Spring Meeting of the Executive Board

The American Folklore Society (AFS) Executive Board met in Bloomington, Indiana, on April 27–28, 2026, for its annual spring board meeting. All Executive Board members were present for the two-day gathering, which focused on the Society’s long-term priorities, emerging challenges, and future opportunities. Held on the campus of Indiana University, the meeting also provided an opportunity for board members to reconnect with faculty, staff, and students in the Department of Folklore and Ethnomusicology.

According to AFS Executive Board President Dr. Jason Baird Jackson, the spring meeting allows extra time for broader conversations about the Society’s future and the issues affecting folklorists and folklore organizations.

For Jackson, the most important outcome of the meeting was the opportunity for board members to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the Society. “The board represents a diversity of perspectives and experiences,” he said. “One of the reasons the meeting was successful is that we were able to develop a shared understanding of the situations we face and have productive conversations about both our strengths and our challenges.” Jackson noted that these conversations took place during a challenging time for public-facing humanities work, higher education, museums, and related fields. He was encouraged by the thoughtful and collaborative spirit of the discussions, describing them as open, honest, and productive. While the meeting was not focused on launching major new initiatives, it helped clarify priorities and inform ongoing work that will shape the Society’s future.

Discussion about the different needs and roles of AFS sections received particular attention. While many sections remain active and thriving, others have become less active over time, and Board members discussed how the Society can respond to these changes while ensuring that members and prospective members can continue to find meaningful opportunities for connection and participation.

The Board also discussed upcoming AFS events and initiatives. Jackson expressed particular enthusiasm for the 2026 Annual Meeting in Asheville, noting the strong local partnerships and dedicated organizers helping to plan the event. He also highlighted early planning for the Society’s joint 2027 meeting with the Oral History Association in Chicago, describing it as an exciting opportunity for collaboration. In addition, he expressed optimism about the work of several task forces and working groups that are addressing important issues facing AFS and the field more broadly.