New Partnership to Publish Interdisciplinary, Transregional Publications in Buddhist Studies

The American Council of Learned Societies (ACLS) is launching Global Buddhism, a major book series published by Yale University Press. The new book series is designed to publish first books by awardees of The Robert H. N. Ho Family Foundation Program in Buddhist Studies, based on research funded by the program. Books will be published in English but may cover topics related to any Buddhist tradition anywhere in the world. The series is made possible by generous financial support from The Robert H. N. Ho Family Foundation Global. 

In summer 2025, ACLS will launch the first call for applications for awardees of the program to submit book proposals. Submissions will be reviewed by an editorial board comprised of leading scholars of Buddhist Studies, who will recommend up to three manuscripts for publication in 2025-26 and 2026-27. 

“The Global Buddhism series is ‘global’ in two senses of that term,” said Donald Lopez, Jr., Senior Advisor to The Robert H. N. Ho Family Foundation Program in Buddhist Studies and editor of the new series. “First, it follows Buddhism not only across Asia but around the world. And second, it recognizes Buddhism in all its incarnations, from the time of the Buddha to the present day. The Program in Buddhist Studies has long supported scholars as they move from dissertation to manuscript. With the Global Buddhism series, that support extends to the first book, opening new vistas along the way.” 

The Global Buddhism series is an essential new addition to The Robert H. N. Ho Family Foundation Program in Buddhist Studies. Since 2013, the program has supported early-career scholars through Dissertation and Research Fellowships, as well as mentoring opportunities and events to help build international networks. 

“ACLS is excited to partner with Yale University Press on this unique new series,” said Daphne Weber, ACLS Program Officer of Buddhist Studies. “By prioritizing support for first books by outstanding new scholars in the field, this series will affirm our commitment to the next generation.” 

The Program in Buddhist Studies is made possible by a $7.5 million grant extension to ACLS from The Robert H. N. Ho Family Foundation Global to promote and support knowledge production through fellowships and grants, strengthen international networks through annual symposia for early career fellows, and enhance public understanding of Buddhist art, traditions, and culture.