The Poets and Writers of Colorado Mesa University (CMU) series features the works of several faculty and professors across CMU’s campus, giving them the chance to share their writing and ideas with an audience of community members.
Featuring Robin Calland, Carrie Kellerby, Labecca Jones, John Nizalowski and Luis Silva-Villar, the latest installment of the series took place at Kiln Coffee Bar in Downtown Grand Junction on Thursday, Feb. 20.
“One of the primary missions of a university is to enrich the culture of the community where it resides,” English Professor and director of the event, John Nizalowski, said. “By holding the readings at the Kiln Coffee Bar on Main Street, we bring CMU’s creative talent off campus and to the general public of the Grand Valley.”
The Poets and Writers Series has been held for several years and has created a space for professors and faculty to share what they are working on in a place where they can receive real time feedback.
Savanah Lee for The Criterion
“I usually choose one or two pieces I’ve written most recently. Sometimes, I am still making small adjustments up until a few hours before the reading. It’s exciting to see what comes to me when I’m under a bit of pressure,” English Professor, Labecca Jones, said.
It has also served as a chance for faculty to share the writing they had been working on with the community, not just their students.
“The series inspires me to bring something fresh to the reading,” Jones said. “My hope is that my writing inspires people to use their experiences as a way to connect with others through sharing. Good things can come from inviting others to open up by opening up ourselves.”
The next series will be held on Mar. 26 at Kiln Coffee Bar at 6:30 p.m., this time featuring writings from Laureen Cantwell, Eric Lakey, Michele Hanson and Randy Phyllis.
