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Successful Winter Intersession Writing Retreat

Jan 12, 2022

On January 6, 2022, the Center for Research and Creative Activities, in partnership with the Mary G. Walsh Writing Center, hosted the Winter-Intersession Intensive Writing Retreat. The event was a one-day version of Just Write, a year-long accountability group that meets weekly throughout the academic year. The retreat was designed to be an intensive one-day experience where full-time faculty were able to dedicate time to their writing projects.

The retreat took place virtually from 8:30 am-4 pm and was attended by six faculty, along with the event coordinators Al DeCiccio, who runs the Writing Center, and Elizabeth Kenney, executive director of the Center for Research and Creative Activities and the associate dean of the School of Graduate Studies. 

Participants were given a log with questions in order to track their productivity over the course of the day, as well as word count, strategy, and productivity templates. They were able to participate in designated timed writing sessions, as well as optional check-ins and peer response sessions. The participants also received editing services from the CRCA’s program assistant.

Given the success of the event, and the overwhelming request that similar opportunities continue to be offered, the CRCA and Writing Center are already discussing the possibility of hosting another day-long event soon, and a possible two-day event during the spring recess in March. There has even been talk of creating a more “retreat” like vibe by incorporating chair yoga sessions and designated writing playlists to encourage and inspire creativity! Then, to finish up the semester, we will be offering a three-day writing workshop event from May 23-27.

You can also join us for Just Write, a low-key, weekly writing session that will allow you to keep your projects on track. The weekly sessions will begin January 25, 2022 and meet every Tuesday, 12 pm-1 pm. Email ssu-research@salemstate.edu with "Just Write" in the subject line to receive the Zoom link.

To stay informed and reserve your spot for upcoming events, please visit our Polaris page or follow CRCA on social media:

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