Great Things are Happening the OC's Language and Literature Department

The McBride Center hosted a Writers Festival March 29 

The McBride Center, created in the Language and Literature Department by English alum and former professor Scott LaMascus, is hosting a Writers Festival on March 29 featuring bestselling author Rilla Askew. The festival will take place at OC’s Meinders Conference Center from 1-7 p.m. This unique event is OC’s first generative craft and reading program of its kind. OC is actively encouraging this innovative community of writers to continuously pursue their creativity.

This event is particularly based around the legacy of English professor Bailey McBride and his wife, Joyce, who were known for their strong enthusiasm for Christian community and learning. Registration and buffet are free, but spaces are limited. Sign up at: http://tinyurl.com/writersfestival2025

Bestselling author Rilla Askew participated in The McBride Writers Festival March 29 

Calling all writers! The McBride Writers Festival is coming up on March 29! Best-selling author Rilla Askew will give a free reading from her book, followed by an open mic session with other registered authors. Askew’s book, “Prize for the Fire,” is about a Christian martyr living in the 16th-century during the English Reformation. The Writers Festival event will take place in OC’s Meinders Conference Center at 7 p.m. The McBride Center for Humanities has encouraged readers and writers alike since 2004, reassuring and igniting their passion for doing what they love. OC is thrilled to host such an inspiring and impactful event! Click here for more info: tinyurl.com/RillaAskew

Distinguished Professor of Language and Literature Dr. Cami Agan co-edited “Women and Gender in the Works of J.R.R. Tolkien”

OC’s faculty are accomplishing amazing things! Dr. Cami Agan, distinguished professor of Language and Literature, recently shared that she is working on a co-edited volume of essays on Tolkien entitled, “Women and Gender in the Works of J.R.R. Tolkien” with junior scholar and co-editor Clare Moore!

“It's particularly gratifying to work with a young scholar whose scholarly interests intersect with mine,” said Agan.

Congratulations, Dr. Agan! OC is proud of your prestigious work!

Department Chair and Associate Professor of Language and Literature Dr. Travis Montgomery has published books on Edgar Allan Poe

OC’s faculty are doing amazing things! Department Chair and Associate Professor of Language and Literature Dr. Travis Montgomery is an expert in Edgar Allan Poe. He actively contributes to the field through presentations, publications, and his role on the Executive Committee of the Poe Studies Association. In the last three years, he’s published two books on Poe and continues to shape academic discussions in the field. It is so awesome to see our professors shine!

English alumnus Scott LaMascus released a new book detailing his father’s battle with ALS

OC is excited to celebrate English alumnus Scott LaMascus and the release of his new book, which details his father’s battle with ALS. This powerful story captures the struggles of the disease and the incredible strength of his family. We’re so proud of Scott for sharing this personal story! Order your copy here: http://tinyurl.com/OCScottBook