Center for Regional Studies
2015-2016 UNM Graduate Fellowships
New Mexico Document Heritage Fellowship
in the University Libraries
Center for Southwest Research
The University of New Mexico
The New Mexico Document Heritage Fellowship is awarded to a graduate student enrolled at
the University of New Mexico for work on the historic papers collected by William G. Ritch to
recover them virtually for the heritage of New Mexico and make them accessible to researchers
worldwide.
While he was Secretary of the Territory, Ritch gathered over 2,000 documents (1539-1885)
from the Palace of the Governor’s Library which are missing from the state’s patrimony today.
They provide important insight into the history of New Mexico. The colonial era papers include
governors’ orders, court records and church inventories. Mexican era papers include
appointments to the presidio and local posts, and Santa Fe trade passports and business
records. Those for 1846-1873 cover the American occupation, local political struggles, the Civil
War, and Indian affairs.
Duties and Responsibilities
The fellow will describe and write metadata about these papers for the New Mexico Digital
Collection and assist in uploading scans of them to the site. Because of the nature of the
materials, it is best if the fellow is familiar with New Mexico history.
Terms of the Award
The award is for $15,000. The fellow will work 20 hours each week during the fall and spring
semesters including finals week and the week before the start of classes in both the fall and the
spring. University-wide holidays are excepted. The fellow is required to give a short research
presentation in spring 2016 relating to the work accomplished during the fellowship.
Deadline for receipt of applications is May 26, 2015
Selection Criteria
Required:
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Graduate student in residence at the University of New Mexico with a minimum of 6
credit hours of course work, thesis or dissertation hours which count towards the
graduate degree.
Strong background in New Mexico History or Southwest Studies
Good communication, organization and time management skills
Legally authorized to work in the United States
Preferred:
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Knowledge of relevant software applications
Previous experience in special collections or archives
Fluency in Spanish, with New Mexican heritage Spanish highly preferred
Application Requirements
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Letter of application specifically addressing the selection criteria
Two letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with applicant’s academic and
work experience; letters should include telephone numbers for verification
Copy of a recent research paper (first 1-3 pages only)
Applicant’s resume/curriculum vitae
Completed application form
Applications available online at: http://library.unm.edu/cswr/fellowships.php
Request additional information and/or send your completed application packet to:
Nancy Brown Martinez
Center for Southwest Research, University Libraries
1 Univ. of New Mexico, MSC 05-3020,
Albuquerque, NM 87131-0001
505-277-1389 or nmbrown@unm.edu
Deadline for receipt of application is May 26, 2015