Manisha Sinha, professor of history and James L. and Shirley A. Draper Chair in American History at the University of Connecticut, has been awarded the 2024 John W. Blassingame Award for her significant contributions to the field of African American history.  

The honor is awarded to an individual every three years by the Southern Historical Association. The prize recognizes and celebrates Sinha’s distinguished scholarship in African American history and dedicated mentorship of African American students.  Sinha’s graduate students nominated her for the award.

Sinha’s award was announced during the 90th annual meeting of the Southern Historical Association, which was held from October 24-27, 2024 in Kansas City, Missouri.  Associate Professor of History Deirdre Cooper Owens accepted the award on Sinha’s behalf.

The Southern Historical Association promotes an “investigative rather than memorial approach” to Southern history. The Association promotes interest and research in Southern history, collects and preserves Southern historical records, encourages historical societies in the South, and promotes the teaching and study of Southern history.