
The University of New Mexico
NEWS RELEASE
Contact: Carolyn Gonzales 277-5920
cgonzal@unm.edu
August 6, 2007
Jason Scott Smith, assistant professor of history at the University of New Mexico recently received the American Public Works Association Abel Wolman Award, presented annually to recognize the best new book published in the field of public works history.
Smith’s award-winning book, “Building New Deal Liberalism: The Political Economy of Public Works, 1933-1956” (Cambridge University Press, 2006).
The book covers the history of New Deal public policy regarding construction of public works projects.
Smith said, “The book deals with a side of the New Deal often neglected by historians. I hope the book will raise awareness about how the authority of the federal government can be used to transform the nation’s landscape, economy and politics.”
The APWA selection committee found Smith’s book notable both for its ambition and scope, and for the depth and quality of the historical research underlying its conclusions. According to the committee, Smith made a major contribution both to public works history as well as the broader history of the United States during the 20 th century.
Established in 1987, the Abel Wolman Award provides encouragement and recognition to historians whose research and publications contribute generously to the body of public works history. Smith was selected by a committee of public works professionals and scholars.
Smith completed his Ph.D. at the University of California, Berkeley. Before joining the UNM faculty he held postdoctoral fellowships at Harvard and Cornell. Smith has authored articles and essays for publications including USA Today, Reviews in American History, Journal of Social History, Pacific Historical Review and Journal of Interdisciplinary History.
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