Lakeland University will host its annual Great Lakes Writers Festival on November 6-7, offering a range of activities including readings, book signings, master classes, and open mic sessions. The event is free and open to the public. More details about the schedule can be found at the festival website: https://www.greatlakeswritersfestival.org/
This year’s featured authors are Maggie Su and Albert Abonado. Su is the author of “Blob” (Harper 2025) and holds a Ph.D. in fiction from the University of Cincinnati as well as an MFA from Indiana University. Her work has been published in several literary journals.
Abonado’s poetry collection “JAW” was released by Sundress Publications in 2020, and his new work “Field Guide for Accidents” (Beacon Press 2024) was selected by Mahogany Browne for the National Poetry Series. He has received fellowships from both the New York Foundation for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts. Abonado teaches at SUNY Oswego.
The Great Lakes Writers Festival has taken place annually since 1991, bringing together writers, students, and readers from various backgrounds to foster interest in writing. Over its history, more than 50 authors have participated in events such as readings and master classes.
Notable past participants include Mark Strand, Billy Collins, Robin Hemley, Beth Ann Fennelly, A.E. Stallings, Nickolas Butler, and Cathryn Cofell.
“Having experienced the Great Lakes Writers Festival as a student, featured writer (2012) and now host, I can tell you that there is no other admission-free event that brings writers together in such an intimate setting that leaves you inspired to write more, read more and connect with others who wish to entertain, to share knowledge and to make an emotional bond with their community,” said Lakeland Associate Professor of Writing Jodie Mortag.
The festival is supported partly by an endowment from Lucille Fessler—a former chairperson of Lakeland University’s board of trustees—and continues through volunteer efforts by faculty members and creative writing students.
