Elizabeth Acevedo Visits Campus as Writer in Residence

Over her two-day visit, Acevedo brought her passion and inspirational personality as she led a writers’ workshop open to interested members of the community, delivered a keynote address, and visited classes to discuss her work and writing process. In her keynote address, Acevedo shared her experiences as a young person, writer, and influencer of modern young adult literature. Acevedo described how her own personal background influences her novels and fielded questions from students ranging from commentary on today’s culture in the Latin community to empowering young girls and women.

Acevedo is an award-winning novelist whose follow-up novel to her National Book Award winning debut, The Poet X, With the Fire on High, explores creative talent and leadership through food and cooking. Winner of the Golden Kite Award for young adult fiction, Acevedo shows us into the mind and heart of teenage mom Emoni Santiago as she struggles with how to follow her dreams — and whether she should.

In recognition of her many contributions to the school, Chatham Hall seeks to endow the Writer-in-Residence Program to name it in honor of Claudia Emerson ’75 who twice served as the Writer In Residence. A native of Chatham, Claudia Emerson later served as Dean and English teacher at her alma mater. She was recognized as the Poet Laureate of Virginia and was the recipient of the Pulitzer Prize. Claudia Emerson passed away December 4, 2014.

Chatham Hall invites gifts to the fund. To make a donation please contact the Advancement Office, Attn: Claudia Emerson Writer in Residence Fund, 800 Chatham Hall Circle, Chatham, VA 24531. You may also contact Christine Knight, Director of Advancement, at 434-432-5549.