Writing Beyond the Academy: A Week with Professor and Writer Michael N. McGregor

Michael N. McGregor, MFA: writing coach
Professor, Department of English, Portland State University

This workshop is for academics working with spiritually-oriented research or personal stories who want to reach a broader audience. After an introductory presentation with tips and guidelines for producing more accessible, compelling and story-based writing, participants will be free to write on their own. Throughout the week, you will have access to an experienced writing coach who has written successfully for a variety of audiences and taught writers of all kinds to draw more deeply from human experience and their own lives.

This workshop allows maximum time and freedom for writing, so you must come with a writing project. Mornings and afternoons are yours to structure as you wish. Participants will gather in the late afternoon for a reception, common meal, and informal evening sessions that may include conversations about publishing, creating a narrative arc, voice, clarity and more.

The Collegeville Institute will cover travel expenses to and from the workshop within the continental United States, all workshop fees, and room and board. International travel costs, and travel from Hawaii and Alaska may be shared between the Collegeville Institute and the workshop participant. Those who join the workshop will be expected to reside at the Collegeville Institute throughout the entire week. Participants may share apartment space, though each person will be assigned a private bedroom. The program is limited to 12 participants.

There were lots of specific insights into how to write that I found incredibly valuable (e.g., trust the power of stories and personal investment) but the most important learning for me was a renewed sense of direction with my writing and research in general. I’m enthused again about what I’m working on. That’s huge.

–participant in “Writing Beyond the Academy: A Week with Professor and Writer Michael N. McGregor,” Summer 2016

Application Process:

Some advance reading and/or writing may be required in preparation for the workshop.

The application deadline for this workshop has now passed.