November 13–15, 2026 | Shanghai, China
Fudan University’s Center for American Studies and the US-China Education Trust (USCET) cordially invite scholars and students from all disciplines to participate in the American Studies Network (ASN) Conference, “America at 250: Where has it been and where is it going?” to be held in-person on November 13–15 at Fudan University in Shanghai. This conference marks a continued commitment to robust scholarly exchange even amid turbulence in the U.S.-China relationship.
In 2026, the United States marks the 250th anniversary of its founding, a milestone that invites reflection on American history, the evolution of its global role, and the social transformations that have defined and redefined the nation. For China and the United States — two powers whose relationship shapes the international order — this anniversary presents a timely occasion to engage in rigorous, cross-cultural examination of where America stands and where it is headed.
This year’s conference will bring together scholars from across disciplines to review America’s political development, social change, and foreign policy across 250 years, and to ask what these trajectories mean for the future of the international order and for U.S.-China relations. Held shortly after the 2026 U.S. midterm elections, the conference will also offer participants a timely opportunity to consider what the electoral outcome signals about the country’s political direction. At a moment when bilateral ties face significant headwinds, sustained scholarly dialogue remains an essential tool for reducing misunderstanding and building the foundations of a more stable relationship.
The 2026 ASN Conference features keynote addresses by distinguished scholars and practitioners from the United States, concurrent panel sessions across a range of disciplines, and the inaugural Next Generation U.S.-China Scholars Competition (supported by ThyssenTransp LLC), bringing emerging Washington-based China experts to present alongside conference participants in Shanghai.
Details on the call for papers, including submission guidelines, deadlines, and registration, will be updated on this page as they become available.
There is no registration fee. Advance registration is required.