Members of NDA’s Writers Union will participate in the inaugural Wisconsin’s Own Library Creative Writing Workshop at Ripon College.

On Thursday, March 26, members of Writers Union, along with adviser Jean Thillman, will leave NDA at 7:30 a.m. and return by at 6:30 p.m.– just in time for Cabaret Night, emphasized the adviser.

Students will experience all kinds of writing at the workshop.

Among writing instructors at the event  are Nickolas Butler, a Wisconsin-raised author of five novels; Dr. Megan Gannon, a Ripon College Professor of Creative Writing; and Chessy Normile, Wisconsin’s Poet-in-Residence.

One of the Writers Union members going on this field trip is junior Lily Gretzinger who is in her third year in the literary group.

“I am excited for the chance to improve my writing skills and meet fellow writers from different schools around the state,” said Gretzinger.

She has done similar workshop-type events, but none of them have been for creative writing.

“I believe there are three main writing styles we are focusing on: fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction,” said Gretzinger. 

She is not sure exactly what to expect, but she is sure the day will be both fun and educational.

Another NDA student attending the event is senior Camille Lawrence who has been in WU for all four years she has been in high school.

“I am excited to get some formal creative instruction; I haven’t really had that before,” said Lawrence.

She attended a similar event once in elementary school when she was invited to a gifted and talented writing program at Heritage Hill.

“I don’t think we have to have anything prepared; we just have to come ready to learn. I’m so excited to meet new people,” said Lawrence.