Global community of medieval scholars converges on WMU for annual international congress
KALAMAZOO, Mich.— For three days in May, Western Michigan University will become a global hub for medieval scholarship, welcoming experts from around the world to campus. More than 1,700 international medieval scholars from around the world will convene on Main Campus Thursday through Saturday, May 14-16, for the 61st meeting of the International Congress on Medieval Studies.
Congress activities will be held at several campus locations including the WMU Student Center, Sangren Hall, Waldo Library, Kanley Chapel and the Gilmore Theatre Complex.
Across these locations, participants will engage in a wide range of scholarly offerings: paper and poster sessions, roundtables, workshops, demonstrations and performances. The 2026 meeting continues in a hybrid format, with in-person, virtual and hybrid sessions designed to encourage meaningful interaction among scholars participating both on campus and online.
“We are very much looking forward to continuing the spirit of friendship and international cooperation among scholars,” says Dr. Robert F. Berkhofer III, director of the WMU Medieval Institute. “We welcome all scholars of the Middle Ages and anyone interested in learning more about the societies and cultures of the Middle Ages.”
Browse, network and be inspired between sessions
The Exhibits Hall, located in the WMU Student Center, will be back for the 61st Congress and will feature academic presses, artisans, used booksellers, scholarly organizations and purveyors of medieval-themed goods from around the world. The hall remains a central gathering space for networking and discovery between sessions.
The congress will offer a robust slate of special events as well, including concerts, theatrical performances, library exhibits, hands-on workshops and the traditional Saturday evening dance, all designed to foster community and creativity alongside research and teaching.
For more WMU news, arts and events, visit WMU News online.