Participation Type
Performance
Session Title
Crazy Quilt Poetry: Thomas More College Writers Swap the First Pieces of the Urban Appalachian Project
Session Abstract or Summary
Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky Appalachians may reach beyond this immediate geography to embrace migration heritages that include people and places “back home” who inspire a unique sense of family identity. The Urban Appalachian Project (a new initiative founded by the Urban Appalachian Community Coalition) represents a coalition of young adults, community advocates, humanity scholars and artists working together to inspire ongoing conversations about Appalachian heritage and culture in all of its past and present diversity. In these busy and compartmentalized times, how might young people living away from home on college campuses or experiencing new work situations connect the pieces? How does a meaningful society form, where people might baste together key blocks for the creation of a strong Urban Appalachian community—a thoughtful design that captures the unique historical and personal “Where I’m From” elements? Thomas More College writers will share their personal poems of place and identity, expanding the possibilities of poetic expression as a community-building resource for Appalachian peers, including those who have been “adopted” into the circle.
Presentation #1 Title
Crazy Quilt Poetry: Thomas More College Writers Swap the First Pieces of the Urban Appalachian Project
Presentation #1 Abstract or Summary
This reading features poems inspired by Chinese/Appalachian heritage and an exploration of bringing diverse people together to find common ground in Appalachian identity.
At-A-Glance Bio- Presenter #1
With roots from the mountains of China and the hills of West Virginia, Erin Carrus now spends most of her time in Northern Kentucky where she studies creative writing, Environmental Science, and mathematics at Thomas More College. A full-time student and even more full-time big sister, Erin enjoys spending her free time volunteering in local government, venturing to majestic destinations, and capturing irreplaceable memories on camera.
Presentation #2 Abstract or Summary
The author will share creative writing about her Floyd County, Kentucky “holler” family and her ties to the survival of coal country, local politics and traditional music programming.
At-A-Glance Bio- Presenter #2
Jeni is from Marin, Kentucky and is pursuing a bachelor's degree in political Science, as well as associates' degrees in english, nonprofit and public administration, and international studies. In the future, she hope to earn a master's degree in public lands management and work for either the National Parks Service or Kentucky State Parks.
Presentation #3 Abstract or Summary
These poetic reflections about Ohio River farm culture, family migration and being labelled the “country cousin” explore complex interpretations of home place.
At-A-Glance Bio- Presenter #3
Morgan Bahnsen is a Thomas More College biology major who plans to work within the medical community. She has a strong appreciation of poetry’s power to inspire wellness and restoration.
Presentation #4 Abstract or Summary
This non-Appalachian poet will share her nature-inspired, family and relational centered reflections as a way of contemplating the power of Appalachian themes and cultural expression to ignite a sense of community.
At-A-Glance Bio- Presenter #4
Born two miles from the shore of Lake Michigan, Brook Batch now resides in West Harrison, Indiana and studies creative writing at Thomas More College where her passion for writing is deepened every day. With a strong interest in the natural world and the writing process, Brook enjoys writing fiction and poetry from moment an idea is born to the final stages of meticulous revision.
Presentation #5 Abstract or Summary
This poet casts a sharp gaze at her literacy-rich, Kentucky coal country upbringing as well as tensions related to sexual identity, addiction and various forms of abuse.
At-A-Glance Bio- Presenter #5
Courtney Barnoski is a Thomas More College undergraduate majoring in business administration and marketing. She also has a minor in English/creative writing.
Conference Subthemes
Diversity and Inclusion
Crazy Quilt Poetry: Thomas More College Writers Swap the First Pieces of the Urban Appalachian Project
This reading features poems inspired by Chinese/Appalachian heritage and an exploration of bringing diverse people together to find common ground in Appalachian identity.
