On October 15, 2009, History major Aaron Hiltner presented a refereed research paper as part of a panel on “Civil Rights: Gains and Limitations,” at the Northern Great Plains History Conference, held this year at St. Cloud State University. Aaron’s presentation was titled “‘Before I’ll Be a Slave, I’ll Be Buried in My Grave:’ Cairo, IL, Black Nationalism, and the Limits of the Civil Rights Movement.” Aaron reports that the session was well attended and provided him with useful feeback on his paper. Presentations at this important regional history conference are normally by graduate students and professors only; however, when Professor David Obermiller of our Department suggested that Aaron submit a paper proposal, he did and it was accepted. One lesson of this, Aaron says, is that Gustavus History majors engaged in writing research papers should submit proposals to this annual conference. The Department echoes Aaron’s encouragement and we are happy to help with the proposal process. Nice work, Aaron, and congratulations on your distinction!