The mission of the Robert H. Smith International Center for Jefferson Studies (ICJS) is to foster Thomas Jefferson scholarship and disseminate findings through research and education.
Founded in 1994 by the Thomas Jefferson Foundation, Inc.—the private, nonprofit organization that has owned and operated Monticello since 1923—the ICJS has created a network of scholars, teachers, and students who engage a global audience in a dialogue with Jefferson’s ideas. Through a fellowship program, international scholarly conferences, panel discussions, teacher workshops, lectures, and curriculum-based tours, the ICJS establishes relationships with people from around the world.
The ICJS encompasses the departments of archaeology, research, publications, adult enrichment, the 15,500-square foot Jefferson Library, and the editorial operations of The Papers of Thomas Jefferson: Retirement Series. An Advisory Board of acclaimed scholars and statesmen helps guide the Center’s activities.