What's Happening?
The University of Utah has successfully revived its student literary magazine, the Seven Canyons Review, after several years of inactivity. The magazine's first issue was released in the spring of 2026, marking a significant milestone for the university's
creative community. The initiative to bring back the publication was spearheaded by editors-in-chief Daiyan Ke and Kit Stevens, who began the revival process in 2024. With support from faculty, on-campus departments, and peers, they rebuilt the magazine to provide students with valuable publishing experience and a platform to showcase their creative work. The magazine's first edition was a collaborative effort involving recruitment of editors and readers, acceptance of submissions, and coordination with a printing company. The publication received a higher number of submissions than anticipated, including contributions from universities across the nation.
Why It's Important?
The revival of the Seven Canyons Review is significant as it provides a crucial platform for students to gain experience in creative writing and publishing, fields that often lack practical opportunities at the undergraduate level. This initiative not only enriches the university's cultural landscape but also strengthens interdisciplinary connections among students from various departments, such as English, fine arts, and book arts. By offering a venue for creative expression, the magazine fosters a vibrant literary community on campus and encourages students to engage in artistic endeavors. Additionally, the magazine's success in attracting submissions from across the country highlights its potential to elevate the university's reputation in the literary world.
What's Next?
Looking ahead, the editorial team of the Seven Canyons Review is preparing for the upcoming academic year by training new leadership and expanding the magazine's reach. The focus will be on refining the publication process, hosting community events, and participating in national collegiate literary magazine competitions. The founders, Ke and Stevens, aim to ensure the magazine's sustainability by involving new voices and perspectives, thereby broadening its appeal beyond English majors. This strategic approach is expected to solidify the magazine's presence on campus and continue its role as an important resource for creative expression.
