Redevelopment of Norris University Center’s East Lawn to begin this summer
April 5, 2024
CHICAGO, Ill. --- Northwestern University beckons writers of fiction, nonfiction and poetry to gather for three days of writing workshops at Writing Chicago: the Northwestern Summer Writers’ Conference.
The conference will take place July 28 to 30 on the Chicago campus in Wieboldt Hall, 339 E. Chicago Ave. The early registration period is through June 30. Eligible Northwestern employees can apply for 100 percent tuition reimbursement.
This year’s conference includes keynote presentations by acclaimed novelist Nnedi Okorafor on Thursday, July 28, and fiction writer Juan Martinez on Friday, July 29. Both speakers will read from their own work and converse about the process of writing and publishing.
Okorafor is the author of “Lagoon,” “Who Fears Death” and “Zahrah the Windseeker.”
Martinez, assistant professor of English at Northwestern, has published short stories in numerous journals. “Best Worst American” his collection of short stories, will be published in 2017.
On Saturday, July 30, the conference will feature live lit performances from Story Club. Storytellers will share true tales told live -- no notes, no net.
“As the only writers’ conference of its kind in the Chicago region, this program is designed to attract a diverse audience, and to help students gain inspiration and build confidence, along with opportunities to network with other writers,” said Stephanie Teterycz, director of Summer Session and Special Programs at Northwestern.
Workshop and panel topics include fiction, nonfiction, poetry, memoir, young adult and publishing. Events will be tailored to writers of all genres, backgrounds and levels of experience. The conference also welcomes anyone seeking a fuller understanding of the craft of writing.
Participants will have the opportunity to learn about a variety of topics from the dynamic use of setting to connecting with characters. There also will be manuscript consultations with workshop leaders.
Tuition for Writing Chicago: the Northwestern Summer Writers’ Conference will be $675 for three days, $475 for two days and $250 for one day. Reduced tuition is available for students. Beginning July 1, people can register for $750 for three days, $525 for two days or $275 for one day.
For more information about the conference or to register online, visit www.sps.northwestern.edu/summerwriters, email summerwriters@northwestern.edu or call 847-491-3458.
