What's Happening?
Travis Kurowski has been appointed as the new chair of the Association of Writers & Writing Programs (AWP) Board of Directors, succeeding January Gill O’Neil. The decision was made during the board's quarterly meeting earlier this month. Kurowski has been a member
of the AWP Board since 2022 and has chaired several committees, including the Mid-Atlantic Council, the AWP Board Development Committee, and the AWP Board Professional Standards Committee. He is an associate professor at York College of Pennsylvania, where he directs the writing program and serves as the faculty advisor to the York Review. Kurowski expressed his honor and privilege in taking on the role, emphasizing the upcoming #AWP26 event in Baltimore and the challenges and opportunities ahead for writers and writing programs.
Why It's Important?
Kurowski's appointment as AWP board chair is significant for the literary community, as he brings extensive experience and leadership to the role. His background in academia and involvement in various AWP committees positions him to effectively navigate the challenges facing writers and writing programs. The AWP plays a crucial role in supporting writers and fostering literary culture, and Kurowski's leadership could influence the direction of the organization and its impact on the literary community. His focus on upcoming events and initiatives suggests a proactive approach to addressing the needs of writers and enhancing the visibility and support for writing programs.
What's Next?
As Kurowski steps into his role as AWP board chair, he will likely focus on preparing for the #AWP26 event in Baltimore and addressing the evolving needs of the literary community. This may involve strategic planning to enhance support for writers and writing programs, as well as initiatives to engage with new opportunities and challenges. Stakeholders, including writers, educators, and literary organizations, may anticipate changes in AWP's approach to advocacy and support under Kurowski's leadership. The board's decisions and initiatives in the coming months will be closely watched by those invested in the literary community.
