About AFAR
American Foreign Academic Research
American Foreign Academic Research, more commonly recognized as AFAR, is an organization dedicated to the advancement of archaeological field research, cultural site preservation, and the belief that the science can be advanced through the education and outreach of professionals and non-professionals alike.
Since its inception in 2006, AFAR has pioneered full-scale international archaeological research incorporating pre-collegiate students, driven historically important site preservation initiatives, as well as developed outreach and educational programs for all ages and experiences.
AFAR bridges the academic and non-academic worlds and works to educate and engage the youngest elementary students to intellectually curious senior citizens. Through education, research, and financial support, American Foreign Academic Research is actively opening the eyes of the world to the wonders of archaeology.
AFAR is based in Davidson, North Carolina and operates as a 501(c)3 organization.
2025 Cahal Pech Research Team
Pre-collegiate archaeological experiences
AFAR is dedicated to inspiring the next generation of scholars by introducing students to research and discovery well before college. Through partnerships with established programs and professional archaeologists, we create opportunities for pre-collegiate students to take part in major archaeological fieldwork.
Students work side by side with respected archaeologists at historically significant sites, experiencing the excitement of discovery firsthand. Each day also includes lectures and excursions that deepen understanding of the host country’s history and cultural treasures. Whether or not participants go on to pursue archaeology professionally, every student leaves with a lasting appreciation for our shared cultural heritage and a deeper connection to the past. These pre-collegiate initiatives remain at the heart of AFAR, shaping our work and driving everything we do.
Archaeology conferences
AFAR advances public understanding of ancient cultures through education and outreach, including our signature conference series focused on Maya archaeology.
Since 2007, Maya at the Playa Conference has convened leading archaeologists, emerging scholars, and enthusiasts from around the world. AFAR expanded in 2011 with Maya at the Lago in Davidson, North Carolina, and in 2025 launched a third series in Orlando, Florida: The Maya at the Mouse Meetings.
Our conferences are intentionally different from the traditional academic model: top scholars share their latest research in clear, digestible presentations paired with hands-on, interactive workshops that are accessible, inspiring, and valuable for both scholars and lifelong learners, then we add a generous dose of festivities to create an atmosphere that deepens your understanding of the world and leaves you smiling.
Participants at the 2025 Maya at the Mouse Meetings
Zorita de los Canes — Spain
Cahal Pech — Belize
Site Preservation
From the beginning, AFAR has recognized that excavation carries a responsibility to preserve what is uncovered. With the support of generous individuals and partner organizations, we provide essential funding to conserve the cultural materials and architecture exposed through our work.
Since 2010, donations from the Archaeological Institute of America and the Tilden Family Trust have made major conservation efforts possible at the Maya site of Cahal Pech in Belize. Together, these contributions have helped protect the site’s legacy by conserving 11 structures within its core.
AFAR also supports preservation beyond Belize. In central Spain, our funding helped stabilize and restore key elements of the medieval Castle of Zorita, including the church used by the Order of Calatrava. Across all our projects, AFAR remains committed to safeguarding these remarkable places so future generations can experience them firsthand.