University News

WIU to Host Fifth Annual Get Lit Writing and Art Contest April 13

March 6, 2023

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MACOMB/MOLINE, IL - - Western Illinois University will host the fifth annual Get Lit Writing and Art Contest from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Thursday, April 13 on the Quad Cities campus in the QC Complex C Atrium. Last year, more than 60 local area high school students and teachers were in attendance.

"This event is a labor of love," said English Professor and event organizer Everett Hamner. "It's always been an honor to be able to witness and celebrate the work of these writers and artists. WIU is grateful to have consistent partners in local teachers, as well as other WIU organizations like WQPT, SGA and our Student Activities office."

Area students will have the opportunity to read poems and short stories at an open mic and display their paintings, sculptures and other visual work. Additionally, students will tour campus, ask questions about college life to a panel of current students and visit classes in progress.

The contest features three formal categories: poems; short stories, screenplays or plays; and images, paintings and sculptures. In addition, students will focus on three thematic categories, including gender and sexuality; race and class; and environment, climate and local interest.

Prizes will be awarded to three students in each of the six categories. First place will receive a $50 gift card, second place $40, and third place $30.

Last year's event included Bettendorf, Maquoketa, Moline, North Scott and United Township high schools.

The deadline to submit writing and art projects is Thursday, April 6. For more information and to submit, visit getlitwriting.wixsite.com/getlit. For questions about the event, email IDEAS at ideasqcdrive@gmail.com.

Posted By: Lexi Yoggerst (AJ-Yoggerst@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing