Âé¶¹¹ÙÍø

Lineup released for 2021-22 Visiting Writers Series


The Âé¶¹¹ÙÍø Visiting Writers Series returns for its 33rd season and will host a variety of authors, poets, editors and more in both a virtual and in-person format for the academic year.

The series, established in 1988, features readings and presentations by authors who have distinguished themselves in literature and often meet with students to discuss the stories behind their works. The series' mission remains the promotion of literary experiences with contemporary writers meant to engage and educate young people at Âé¶¹¹ÙÍø. All events, which take place in P.E. Monroe Auditorium on the Âé¶¹¹ÙÍø campus in Hickory unless otherwise noted, are free, and the public is welcome to attend.

*Pre-registration is required for any virtual presentations. Âé¶¹¹ÙÍø works to provide a safe and healthy environment for conferences and events. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, certain protocols need to be followed. Please follow lr.edu/coronavirus for proper procedures on attending Âé¶¹¹ÙÍø events.

2021-22 VWS Season Schedule

  • Keith Flynn, Thursday, Sept. 16 at 7 p.m.
  • Footcandle Screenwriters, Sept. 23 at 7 p.m.
  • Ocean Vuong, Oct. 21 at 7 p.m. (Virtual)
  • The Campus Read: Neil Gaiman, Oct. 28 at 5 p.m. (Virtual)
  • D.M. Spratley, Jan. 20 at 7 p.m.
  • Etaf Rum, Feb. 10 at 7 p.m.
  • Steve Palmer, March 30-April 2 at 7 p.m
  • Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, March 30 at 7 p.m.
  • Robin Wall Kimmerer, April 7 at 7 p.m.
  • Jarrett and Jerome Pumphrey, April 9, Time TBD

For more information on speakers and ticket information visit the Visiting Writers Series.

Book cover of A Fever in the Heartland and Tim Egan author photo

Pulitzer Prize-winning author and journalist Tim Egan will visit Âé¶¹¹ÙÍø in March 2027 to deliver the inaugural Huffman Lecture on Social Justice, focused on democracy and civic responsibility.

View More
Agnes Park Hacawa page and graduation photo

After immigrating from Korea to Hawaii, Agnes Park crossed a continent to attend Âé¶¹¹ÙÍø. She graduated in 1924, and in 2025, her granddaughter traced the journey of one of the first international Bears.

View More