The University of Baltimore's MFA in Creative Writing and Publishing Arts program will host its annual Graduate Book Fair and Reading on Saturday, May 10, from 2 to 5:30 p.m. in the Wright Theater in the UBalt Student Center, 21 W. Mt. Royal Ave. The event is free and open to the public.
This year, the fair will celebrate the accomplishments of 13 graduating writers, who will read from their newly published works of fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. Guests are invited to meet the authors, purchase their books, and explore original literature shaped by a wide range of voices—from emerging talents to seasoned writers with decades of life experience.
The University's MFA in Creative Writing and Publishing Arts offers a uniquely hands-on experience for students: Each graduating writer designs, publishes, and presents their book. The result—for many, the realization of a lifelong dream—is a literary work that reflects the cohort's vibrancy and determination.
"We take great pride in our creatively diverse and supportive community within the MFA, as well as within the process of thesis," says Professor and MFA Program Director Betsy Boyd. "This year's graduating cohort brings many different talents to the classroom and the book fest—from poetry, fiction, and memoir writing that grabs you, to pro baking skills to poster-making genius. It's a cool group, and we're excited to party with their books."
Prof. Andrew Klein, who provides design expertise for the students' books, says, "It is a profound joy to see each student find their own path, to build an entire book both from the heart and out of thin air. They offered themselves to the process of discovery, collaboration and creation, and they now have memories and artifacts to last a lifetime. All of the faculty who teach in the program couldn't be prouder of our students. It's a privilege to play this role in their journey."
Each book reflects the program's distinctive blend of writing and publishing education. Students take coursework in writing, including classes devoted to workshop, as well as in typography and publication design, where they learn the fundamentals of their book's layout, font selections, and visual storytelling.
With an emphasis on collaboration, storytelling, and publishing literacy, UBalt's MFA program fosters a community of writers who support one another across genres and creative goals.
"When I started the MFA program in the fall of 2019, I could tell immediately that I was in a community of supportive, creative, and hard-working writers," says Rosanne Singer, a poet and graduate student. "That feeling has continued into my thesis year, where I am surrounded by a warm-hearted cohort of dedicated authors who cheer each other on."
The program also offers writers the opportunity to build lasting connections within a creative community—relationships that help strengthen their work through feedback and mutual support.
"I have a real writers' community that supports my writing endeavors as much as I support everyone else," says Shay Potter, a non-fiction writer and graduate student. "We took the time to get to know one another and break bread; we can open ourselves to critiques and know that our colleagues want the best. I think this is a hidden gem about this program—the people it attracts."
Following readings by the graduating students, a reception and book sale will by available to attendees. Writers and guests will make connections with the newly minted authors, and celebrate Baltimore's thriving literary arts scene.
The Graduate Book Fair and Reading is supported by the Klein Family Fund.
Learn more about The University of Baltimore's MFA in Creative Writing and Publishing Arts.
This release was written by Ashlyn Mason Kenney, a Maryland-based writer and media professional, who is expected to earn her MFA in Creative Writing and Publishing Arts degree from The University of Baltimore.