“Walk the walk and see what people do” is the guiding philosophy of UW Professor Emeritus Phil Roberts, whose deep commitment to experiential learning and public engagement brought Wyoming history to life for generations of students and communities across the state. 

Now, thanks to an anonymous major gift doubled by Wyoming’s state matching program, Roberts’s legacy will continue through the newly established Phil Roberts Faculty Fellowship in Wyoming History and the West. 

“Funding a named faculty fellowship in the UW Department of History is not merely a financial decision but a strategic investment in the intellectual and cultural fabric of our state and nation,” says Scott Turpen, dean of the UW College of Arts and Sciences. “Wyoming’s history is important history, and this fellowship named for Dr. Roberts will be its champion. The gift reminds us of the value that the humanities and Wyoming history have for our great state.” 

Roberts’s influence has stretched far beyond the classroom—from co-writing the Wyoming Almanac to presenting hundreds of talks statewide. This fellowship will preserve his lifelong mission by providing opportunities for students and scholars to explore Wyoming’s history for generations to come. 

“We are delighted to announce this new generous gift that will forever honor Dr. Roberts and his years of distinguished service to UW and our state,” says John Stark, president and CEO of the UW Foundation. “There is no one more deserving than Phil Roberts. We also are thrilled that the State of Wyoming could partner with this donor through its 2024 appropriation of state matching funds.”