Illinois Anthropology Heads to St. Louis for AAA 2026

On the Verge
November 12, 2026

 University of Illinois Anthropology has outstanding representation at this year's American Anthropological Association Annual Meeting, held November 18–22 in St. Louis. This year's theme, "On the Verge," captures the notion that we are amidst a profound moment of transition, making it an exciting time to connect with colleagues about each other's research. 

We have 28 events across five days, with presenters, organizers, chairs and panelists from across the department. Our representation highlights the diversity of anthropological study at Illinois and creates conversations around the most prevalent topics in research today. 

Above all, don't miss our graduate students, who are showing up with the most current research, innovative ideas and creative energy. Look for Tamara Pavlovic on scams and market logics, Michelle Patiño-Flores on Black Cuban art, Lila Ann Wong on cultural work in Burkina Faso, Anushka Anushka on Afghan women refugees, Margie Giacalone on community-based digital research, Cesar Ramírez-Salazar on international legal education, and Johnson Adegbola on humor and political commentary in Nigeria. 

Heading to AAA 2026? Please link to our calendar Illinois Anthropology Calendar   to plan your schedule, find Illinois presenters and join the conversation. We'll see you there!