The American Historical Association offers the Bernadotte E. Schmitt Grants to support research in the history of Europe, Africa, and Asia. The funds for this program come from the earnings of a bequest from Bernadotte E. Schmitt, president of the Association in 1960. These grants are intended to further research in progress.

Professor Robinson, one of eleven recipients nationwide, won the award for her research, "Standard Swahili: Expressions of Belonging and Exclusion in Eastern Africa."