The recent Kestrel Celebration at Fairmont State University marked another successful gathering of literary and visual arts enthusiasts, which continues a rich tradition that has thrived since 1993. This event has consistently showcased the talents of writers and artists from around the globe and this year was no exception. The celebration focused on works included in Issue 51 that was released last summer.
Held twice a year for the past sixteen years, the Kestrel Celebration brings esteemed writers to the charming Fairmont state campus. Attendees experience the vibrant academic environment, fostering a spirit of collaboration and inspiration that resonates throughout the campus.
The celebration focused on works included in Issue 51 which was released last summer. The featured writers read pieces that ranged from poetry to creative non-fiction. Writers Kelley Beeson, Jennifer, Maureen Clark, Kristy Crouse, Ray Keifetz, Ethel Rackin, Rick Rohdenburg, Nancy Takacs, and David Thoreen were in attendance during the two-day event.
One of the standout aspects of the celebration is the lasting impact it has on students. This unique opportunity allows both the visiting authors and the university’s students to engage in meaningful interactions. According to Kestrel Editor Dr. Donna Long, who has served in this capacity since 2008, the events are beneficial for students as it facilitates the connection between emerging writers and seasoned professionals. Without these events, many students would be unable to network and build these relationships in a rural area such as North Central West Virginia.
“We have had students go on to work with writers they met at a celebration on summer research and capstone projects, receive recommendations for graduate school, and build lifelong friendships,” Dr. Long said.
This year’s event was especially memorable as Suzanne Heagy, who has long served as the journal’s fiction editor, announced that she is stepping down from the role and relocating to Wisconsin. Heagy took to the podium to symbolically pass her pen to the new humanities faculty member and soon-to-be fiction editor Dr. Robert Powers. The news of her departure evoked a range of emotions from those in attendance.
Kestrel remains the only journal of its kind in the state. While it is housed at Fairmont State, the journal differs from other publications on campus in that it is a professional journal that features works from writers and artists in a variety of genres.
Overall, the Kestrel Celebration continues to be an anticipated event in the literary calendar at Fairmont State University, reinforcing Fairmont State’s commitment to supporting the arts and cultivating future talent. As the university community looks ahead to the next event, the excitement for what’s to come is palpable within the literary community. Dr. Long states that they are currently planning their next event, which will take place during the first quarter of next year.
To learn more about Kestrel or to submit your work visit their website: https://www.fairmontstate.edu/kestrel/default.aspx
