York University’s Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies (LA&PS) and its Writer-in-Residence program have received a contribution from the Hal Jackman Foundation to enhance the study of creative writing.
The Hal Jackman Foundation is a Toronto-based philanthropic organization that has a long-standing commitment to advancing educational initiatives, as well as the arts and human services, providing support to programs that promote vibrant, inclusive and engaged communities.
Since 2022, LA&PS’ Writer-in-Residence program has served as an example of the initiatives the foundation works to advance, having invited award-winning authors – Waubgeshig Rice, Sadiqa de Meijer, Emma Healey and others – to become part of York’s creative community.
“The Writer-in-Residence program has been a wonderful supplement to the creative writing program, providing students with opportunities to consult with working, professional writers on their stories and poems, and to attend talks, panels and other events about writing and publishing in Canada”, says Pasha Malla, associate professor and program coordinator of the Creative Writing program in the Department of English.
Distinguished authors who participate in the program are actively involved in the writing process during their time at York, offering the York community exclusive access to important authors while supporting Canadian writers as they develop their own works.
Over three years, the new $150,000 gift from the Hal Jackman Foundation will supplement existing creative writing courses within the Department of English by continuing to provide students and other York community members opportunities to engage with a professional writer for valuable feedback and guidance through events, manuscript consultations and more.
“The outstanding Writer-in-Residence program enhances our creative writing curriculum by providing students with direct access to professional writers, deepening their understanding of various literary forms and the writing process. These opportunities are vital for promoting a greater appreciation for the liberal arts within our community,” says J.J. McMurtry, dean of LA&PS.
By investing in programs like the Writer-in-Residence, the Hal Jackman Foundation contributes to the development of future writers and encourages the exploration of diverse narratives and voices within the literary landscape and LA&PS.
"This generous contribution from the Hal Jackman Foundation underscores the essential role of philanthropy in enhancing diverse and dynamic programming within our Faculty,” says McMurtry.