On October 18th and 19th, Millersville University hosted the 2024 English Association of Pennsylvania State Universities (EAPSU) Conference. Students, Faculty, and community members gathered to celebrate and share projects related to the theme: Inclusive Stories, Writing for Change. Please enjoy Alumni Megan Tyson’s reflection on the event and the photographic journey below!
EAPSU Experience
By Megan Tyson
This year, the English Association of the Pennsylvania State Universities (EAPSU) 2024 conference took place on Millersville University’s campus, gathering college students and educators from across the state. As an English teacher who spends much of her time working with the field of English within the high school classroom, it was a refreshing experience to be able to learn from and discuss all things within the English field with those who are outside of the K-12 classroom.
Friday’s events, consisting of a graphic novel workshop and a poet as a keynote speaker, were all things that I usually wouldn’t choose for myself. However, after listening to a graphic novelist share how they work through their creative process from start to finish, and then being able to try it with them in the room was an interesting experience, which gave me ideas for my own students. Like many others, I typically shy away from poetry. But, in her keynote address, 3x New York Times bestselling author of What Kind of Woman, I Hope This Finds You Well, & And Yet, Kate Baer said that “Poetry is boiled down storytelling,” and I’ve been thinking about everything that encompasses ever since. She was a dynamic choice; raw, real, and relatable with everything shared, giving me a new perspective on poetry. Being able to have her sign my book and meet her was an added bonus.
Saturday was full of roundtables and individual presentations. I had two “firsts” this weekend; presenting solo and being the chair of sessions. Presenting my ideas to this type of audience was nerve wracking and comforting at the same time. I was unsure how the audience would receive my points regarding dystopian uniforms and school uniforms, but afterward, an audience member came to speak with me about my points personally. Each of the sessions I attended or chaired were excellently put together, making it easy to find compelling connections and common themes across presenters. From situations like presenting and chairing, getting involved in and learning from the larger English community, the more I value being able to discuss, share, and present ideas with others. Leaving Saturday, I felt inspired to get back into my own research and writing I’ve been wanting to do. EAPSU reminded me of the importance of staying connected to the larger field of English, stepping outside of my comfort zone, and why I should keep sharing and pursuing interests within the greater community.
Registration Table –
Comics Workshop featuring Writer/Illustrator Sam Bowen
Friday Panel Session –
Keynote Address from Poet Kate Baer with introductions from Dr. Ieva Zake and Carmen Portillo, moderated by Dr. Emily Baldys
Poster Presentations
Saturday Sessions – these are just a few of our presenters!
Members of the Millersville Organizational Committee from left to right – Dr. A. Nicole Pfannenstiel, Becca Betty, and Dr. Emily Baldys
This conference was made possible with the incredible effort of student volunteers –thank you! and we hope you will join us next year for EAPSU 2025! Check EAPSU.ORG for announcements and next year’s CFP.