UW–Madison Writers’ Institute
About 200 fiction and nonfiction writers meet by Lake Mendota in Madison each summer to learn about publishing trends, improve their craft and discover new ways to market their writing. The two-day institute covers a variety of topics, from the basics of how to write and sell novels and articles, to children's writing and adult genres. The conference also features one-on-one pitch meetings with agents, manuscript critique sessions and a writing contest. Keynote speakers are nationally-known authors such as Margaret George and David Maraniss.
Outcomes
Many sessions are led by UW-Madison faculty from the Division of Continuing Studies, who are experienced writers and poets. The Writers Institute offers professional development for career writers, as well as economic activity for lodging and restaurant businesses on State Street and around the Madison area. Furthermore, the Institute received the National University Continuing Education Association's Phillip E. Frandson Award for Sustained Excellence for programs exemplifying outstanding quality in the humanities, arts or sciences and long-term success in 2002.