14th anniversary: Young Authors Celebration
Hundreds of elementary school students gathered at William Carey University Feb. 22 for the Young Authors Celebration. The annual event has been hosted by the WCU School of Education for 14 years.
Students brought books they had written and illustrated to share with other young authors and to meet with published writers and illustrators. This year, about 350 students, 50 parents and teachers from participating school districts attended.
The day opened at 9 a.m. with a welcome assembly and “We Are Authors!” cheer at Thomas Fine Arts Center. Afterward, students broke into groups to meet with published authors and illustrators, who told them about their profession, gave advice, and took questions.
This year, the list of visiting professionals included Scott/Lindsay Chism, Kathy Young, Diane Williams, Rick Anderson, Jean Sauls, Dean Smith, Terre Harris, Kelly Rosa, Juanita Floyd, Kelly Sanford and Kym Garraway.
The day also included a book fair sponsored by Barnes & Noble at the WCU Bookstore.