The Stanford Faculty Writers' Retreat is a new program for junior faculty that was piloted with great success in the spring of 2015. The Retreats offer a private, comfortable and dedicated space to write and a community to hold each participant accountable to her or his writing progress and goals.
The Retreats are held in week-long sessions that entail daily commitment to attend and to stay for the duration of the day (typically, 9 AM to 3 PM, lunch included). Four sessions were organized in the 2014-2015 academic year. The retreats will be typically held during spring break and in the summer.
Participants work on their writing projects during the retreat session. They are required to switch off email, phone, and texts, unless they are waiting for an urgent personal call. The session starts with a brief check-in on writing goals for the week, and ends by reviewing accomplishments and writing plans after the retreat. Brief workshops on specific writing concerns are offered if participants are interested.
Prior registration in each retreat is required. Participation is limited to a maximum of 10 faculty, with priority given to assistant professors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the commitment?
If you know in advance of a conference or professional meeting conflict, we will ask that you make up the writing time; up to one such arrangement will be accommodated in order to continue in the program. Finally, if you have more regular obligations, we suggest you plan to take Writers’ Retreat at another time. Faculty Writers' Retreats are planned regularly.
Where is the Retreat held?
The Hume Center for Writing and Speaking, Building 250.
What can I expect?
Quiet time with a small group of colleagues who are immersed in their writing projects. Initial brief workshop to get you started, followed by coffee and tea, water, snacks, communal desk space, paper, pens, Post-its, printing, and daily lunch during the week. Past participants have reported meeting their writing goals (finishing manuscripts, making progress on various writing projects…).
Who can participate?
Priority is given to assistant professors who have not participated in a previous Writers’ Retreat; “alumni” will be added to a wait list and will be informed by June 30 if we can accommodate them. Only members of the Stanford faculty can participate (no graduate students, postdocs or staff).
Who is organizing this retreat?
The Hume Center for Writing and Speaking and the Office of the Vice Provost for Faculty Development and Diversity.
Questions may be directed to Julia Bleakney, Director, Hume Center for Writing and Speaking, or to Rania Sanford, Assistant Vice Provost, Faculty Development and Diversity.
