Welcome to the summer edition of the VAN!  As usual, this issue is packed with great information.  There are a number of calls for papers and announcements for upcoming conferences and some wonderful news about VAF members.  But of course, the heart of this issue of the newsletter is the Durham Conference.  We have essays from student ambassadors and access awardees reflecting on their experiences, a blog post from one of the tour leaders, and links to the images and remarks for all of the 2016 awardees announced at the banquet. You will find links to each of these stories below, or you can scroll through the entire issue here.

I also want to mention that there is a new topic on the evolution of the definition of vernacular architecture on the member forums submitted by a graduate student attendee inspired by sessions at the conference.  The forums are a great way to join conversations and dialogue with members throughout the year.