Dickinson State University (DSU) is proud to announce it will serve as the host site for the Western Region National History Day (NHD) competition on March 17, 2026. Middle and high school students from across the region will gather at the DSU Student Center to showcase original historical research centered on this year’s national theme: Revolution, Reaction, Reform in History.
National History Day is a premier project-based learning program that challenges students to become historians. Participants conduct extensive research using primary and secondary sources to create projects in one of five categories: documentaries, exhibits, papers, performances, or websites.
“Hosting National History Day aligns perfectly with our mission at Dickinson State to foster critical thinking and lifelong learning,” said Professor Amy Grinsteinner, DSU assistant dean of social sciences. “We are excited to welcome bright young minds to our campus, providing them with a collegiate environment to showcase their hard work while introducing them to the vibrant community and academic excellence that DSU offers.”
As a hub for education in Western North Dakota, Dickinson State University provides an ideal backdrop for this competition. Beyond the contest, visiting students and their families will have the opportunity to experience DSU’s state-of-the-art facilities and learn more about the university’s commitment to student success and regional leadership.
Winners from the Western Region competition will advance to the state contest held in April at the North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum in Bismarck. From there, top performers earn the chance to represent North Dakota at the National Contest at the University of Maryland, College Park, in June.
"As a former history teacher, I greatly value any opportunity to get students excited about the content area," Grinsteinner adds. "We have unique opportunities in our region to enhance the study of history, and we also have an exciting update related to these opportunities that will be announced at NHD!"
For more information about the competition, registration, or how to get involved as a judge or volunteer, please visit the North Dakota National History Day website at: https://www.ndstudies.gov/curriculum/teacher-resources/national-history-day#heading3.