The Michael J. Colligan History Project
The Michael J. Colligan History Project is a joint undertaking of the Colligan Fund Committee of the Hamilton Community Foundation and the Hamilton Campus of Miami University made possible by the generous bequest of Michael J. Colligan, a prominent local businessman and amateur historian.
Since 2000 the Colligan History Project has brought over one hundred speakers to Hamilton, sponsored programs with schools and public libraries, and given awards for achievements in history. We welcome partnerships with institutions and groups serving the Hamilton community who are interested in historical perspectives. Since 2002 we have presented the John E. Dolibois History Prize to nine distinguished historians for substantial and sustained efforts to promote historical understanding in the community and nation. The Jim Blount History Educator Award is given to teachers who exemplify the outstanding commitment to history and education epitomized in Mr. Blount’s life and career. In accord with Mr. Colligan’s interests, we also offer programs regularly that relate to military history.
Learn about upcoming Michael J. Colligan History Project events on the mjcolligan project blog.
Kai Bird
2025 John E. Dolibois History Prize Lecture
Thursday, March 20, 2025 at 7 p.m. | Parrish Auditorium, Hamilton Campus
Eighty years after World War II, the Michael J. Colligan History Project welcomes the Pulitzer Prize-winning author of “American Prometheus: The Triumph and Tragedy of J. Robert Oppenheimer”. Bird's biography of the father of the atomic bomb inspired the 2023 movie “Oppenheimer," winner of seven Academy Awards including Best Picture.
RSVP