How to make a nomination
Anyone may nominate a book published in the current year. Nominations must be made in one of the three categories: fiction, poetry, or nonfiction. No self-published books will be considered.
To nominate, email Chris Green, Director of the Loyal Jones Appalachian Center, greenchr@berea.edu. Nominations need only share when we can expect to receive the books. If needed, we will use this email address for future contact regarding the author and book.
Nominators need to assure that seven copies of the book are sent to The Weatherford Awards, Loyal Jones Appalachian Center, 101 Chestnut Street, Berea College, Berea, KY 40404 by November 1, 2023.
Deadline for nominations is November 1st of the current year. If the book will be published after the deadline, the nomination letter needs specify date the books are expected to be delivered. If the date is late enough, we may ask the books to be mailed directly to the judges.
The award will be presented during March of the following year at the Appalachian Studies Conference. Finalists will also be announced. A list of winners and finalists will be emailed to all nominators.
Judging: Each award committee is comprised of one Berea College faculty or staff, one or two members of the Appalachian Studies Association, and other independent persons from various parts of the Appalachian South.