The 2014 Great Plains Writers’ Conference (March 23-25) will focus on the roles of military culture in American literary life, with particular emphasis on the relationship—on a personal and cultural level—between literature and healing. This theme reflects South Dakota’s proportionately large contribution to the armed forces, as well as South Dakota State University’s large body (over seven hundred strong) of Military Science students, reservists, and ROTC candidates.

We expect to bring in a robust lineup of nationally-recognized presenters. We hope to invite not only acclaimed writers with military service history, but also civilians who have written significantly about military-related experiences at home.  In addition to readings, our lineup will include creative writing workshops for veterans (modeled on the NEA’s “Operation Homecoming” program) and for students entering the military, programs on the Native American military experience, and outreach to veterans and their families in the community and the region. Click here for more information.