Celebrations

Celebration Issue 41

Celebration 39

Support Kestrel on November 7!

On Nov. 7, the Fairmont State Foundation will be conducting its inaugural Falcon Day of Giving. This is especially exciting because of several global academic matches that will allow the first people to give to have their gifts matched. Please log in to falconsgive.fsufoundation.org on Nov. 7 and make a gift to the Kestrel Program Fund.

A message from FSU English graduate Velicia Jerus Darquenne: As an English major, I began interning with the editors of Kestrel, Dr. Donna Long, Dr. Suzanne Heagy, and Dr. Elizabeth Savage. I learned to critically read fiction submitted by authors from all over the country and world. I learned to edit the work selected, create promotional material for the magazine, and, most importantly, find my voice and confidence to network.

Dr. Long challenged me to introduce guest contributors visiting during the Kestrel Celebrations and attend writing conferences to network for the journal and myself. These experiences directly impacted my future as I learned of the options available for me. One of the introductions Dr. Long requested of me was Jessie van Eerden, who was then director of Master of Fine Arts program at West Virginia Wesleyan College. Two years after the introduction, I found myself applying and getting accepted to the WVWC program. My experience editing with Kestrel helped me land a job with North Central West Virginia Media, where I edited local newspapers, and then helped again when I changed career paths to work at Steptoe & Johnson, PLLC, as a paralegal.

Kestrel Celebrations have continued to be important events for me to attend even after graduating from the MFA program because these are my people. The writing and art community that Kestrel creates is one of life-long solidarity and friendship. Kestrel’s events foster art and creativity while supporting local businesses and bringing artists from all over the United States to visit Fairmont State University and Fairmont.

If you decide to donate, know that your donation will be helping student interns find the confidence to take the next step in their careers and supporting the continued publication of Kestrel.
Please log in to falconsgive.fsufoundation.org on Nov. 7 and give to the Kestrel Program Fund. Go to the College of Liberal Arts and under Fundraising Campaign, select Kestrel. Help us sustain Kestrel and create opportunities for students for years to come.

Thank you,
Velicia Jerus Darquenne

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Celebrations