Leanne Tankel on Inspire Summer 2025 Creative Writing Course
"I am most excited to nurture the curiosity, creativity, and courage necessary to bring forth [students'] 'untold stories.'" - Leanne Tankel
Discover the art of captivating storytelling this summer through the Creative Writing course! Join Leanne as she guides you through the process of turning personal interests/stories into expressive writing that engages the reader.
Q: What was your favorite memory, event, or moment from Inspire last year?
A: My favorite memory from Inspire last year was how our class of young writers, none of whom knew each other prior and whose writing influences spanned the range from dystopian fiction to Russian realism, became a community! A shared belief in the intrinsic value of the writer’s craft and the collective desire to help other writers reach their writing goals allowed our group to evolve into a cohesive, supportive cohort after only a few days. Participating in such a process was a magical experience.
Q: What excites you most about returning to the Inspire program this year?
A: What excites me most about returning to the Inspire program this year is the opportunity to offer young writers the time and space to fully embrace their writing practice. Through daily writing exercises and readings, lessons on craft, feedback from peers, and one-on-one meetings with me, students will develop their voice and improve their craft. As Maya Angelou has shared, “There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you,” and I am most excited to nurture the curiosity, creativity, and courage necessary to bring forth those “untold stories.”
Q: What advice would you offer to incoming students to get the most out of this experience?
A: To get the most out of our week together, come prepared to write. Arrive inspired and curious and be open to new ideas. Stay receptive to feedback from both your classmates and me. Be disciplined. Embrace the opportunity to engage seriously with your own work and that of your peers. Love the process…..and believe in yourself! Finally, know that I am excited for you to join us!
Join Leanne this summer. Learn more about the course (available in-person and online) and apply today! Financial aid is available.