Two Northern Michigan University undergraduate students and one alumna presented their work at the annual convention of Sigma Tau Delta, the international English honor society, March 19-22 in Pittsburgh. Two came away with awards.
According to a Mining Journal article, senior English/secondary education major Erin O'Donnell presented her creative nonfiction story, “Dive Bar Daguerrotype,” in a panel session with two other writers. O'Donnell received an honorable mention award in the Stemmler Dennis LGBT& Award for Creative Work, which included a $100 prize and an invitation to apply for the Lambda Literary Emerging Writers retreat.
NMU graduate Alexandria Bournonville presented her creative nonfiction story, “Worms, Rats, Frog Spiders” in a panel titled Holding Things Together. She received a second-place award in the Isabel Sparks President's Award for Creative Nonfiction, which included a $300 prize. NMU English Professor Kel Sassi served as a panel member for this session.
Junior English/secondary education major Kailey Buettner also presented “Five Poems from Lake Superior” in a panel titled Original Poetry: Place-Based with four other poets.
These papers were selected for presentation through a competitive review process.
Sigma Tau Delta was founded in 1924 at Dakota Wesleyan University. The society strives to confer distinction for high achievement in English language and literature in undergraduate, graduate and professional studies; provide, through its local chapters, cultural stimulation on college campuses and promote interest in literature and the English language in surrounding communities; foster all aspects of the discipline of English, including literature, language and writing; promote exemplary character and good fellowship among its members; exhibit high standards of academic excellence; and serve society by fostering literacy.
NMU's chapter is Eta Phi, and it was established in 1986. Sassi serves as chapter adviser.