THE ASOR 2026-2030 STRATEGIC PLAN

Adopted (unanimously) by the ASOR Board on May 2, 2026

The American Society of Overseas Research (formerly the American Schools of Oriental Research) has grown from an organization rooted in Biblical scholarship and archaeology of the Levant to one in which its members now undertake research, education, and outreach related to the archaeologies, cultures, histories, legacies, and connections from the Mediterranean to the Indian Ocean, and Europe to the African Sahel (see map). ASOR’s purpose is to initiate, encourage, and support research into, and public understanding of, these regions from earliest times to the present day. ASOR has no political or religious affiliation.

Priorities

1. Support high-quality academic research in various venues, giving space for innovative, paradigm-shifting contributions, for example in ASOR’s publications, annual meeting sessions and workshops, and early career scholars and Friends of ASOR.
2. Cultivate partnerships in all educational and outreach efforts through the work of ASOR committees and overseas centers.
3. Further develop relationships and collaborative research with local stakeholders and especially affiliated overseas centers, in order to enhance the understanding, preservation, and viability of cultural heritage related to our members’ research and local needs.
4. Assist members in the practical and financial aspects of international research through enlargement of our ongoing grants programs as well as creating and furnishing venues for providing expert information and counsel.

Looking Outward

We aspire to be a leader, communicator, and supporter of innovative, high-quality, forward-thinking scholarship, education, and partnerships related to the study of the Mediterranean to the Indian Ocean, from Europe to the African Sahel.

1. Strengthen existing platforms and media and activate new fora for scholars and the public alike to enlarge the impact of our members’ contributions to the study of the past as an essential aspect of solutions to issues of today.
2. Increase collaborative educational initiatives geared towards the public and primary and secondary education classroom settings.
3. Develop clear strategies and policies for public-facing outreach and clear communication strategies for access, including translations of materials, for members and other interested parties.

Preparation for the Future

ASOR seeks to continue to expand the audience for its work beyond traditional academics to enhance public understanding of the past and its impact on the present. We aim to support question-based research in the production and preservation of knowledge in the world. ASOR supports diversity that broadens the fields of archaeology, art history, history, linguistics, cultural research, and conservation beyond traditional academic careers, by mentoring and supporting early career scholars and scholars in partner countries, and by providing archaeological and technical training for a broad range of interested individuals. ASOR will continue to create and foster support from a broad range of sources to maintain ASOR’s financial stability and resources for our growing membership.

1. Continue expanding and engaging ASOR’s membership, including efforts to increase membership and engagement from groups underrepresented in the field.
2. Foster opportunities through mentorship and skills development to prepare members for diverse fields in a rapidly-shifting social and economic environment; and to harness the experience of ASOR’s membership to guide members along their chosen paths.
3. Enhance funding relationships to accomplish our mission and strategic goals.