Partners in Writing Program

The Center for Faculty Excellence, the University Library, the Humanities Lab, and the Faculty Senate Committee on Scholarship are partnering to support faculty writing projects with the recently re-launched Partners in Writing Program. Whether you are working on a book chapter, editing a fellowship or grant application, or drafting an op-ed, this program offers both on-campus spaces for writing and opportunities to team up with colleagues – ad hoc or on a regular basis – in Writing Groups.

Writing Spaces

In Spring 2026, we will be offering the following regular (weekly) Writing Spaces, open to all faculty to use as a quiet place to do individual writing. Just bring your preferred writing tools (laptop, tablet, or paper and pen):

  • Tuesdays, 10:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.: The Digital Research and Inquiry Lab (Library)
  • Wednesdays, 12:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.: Battelle-Tompkins T-48
  • Thursdays, 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.: Hurst 202 (“The Third Place”)

Writing Groups

Many faculty members find it useful to partner with colleagues when working on an individual writing project. For some, the best form of support is having “writing buddies” who offer moral support and help keep their colleagues on track. Others benefit from exchanging writing drafts with one another.

We invite you to let us know if you would like help in forming a group; are looking for a group to join; are looking for additional group members; or have a group and would like some logistical support from us. If you are interested, please fill out the questionnaire linked below.

Winter Writing Challenge

Dates: January 16, 23, 30; February 6, 13, 20, 27; March 6
Time: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Location: Zoom

Join CFE for our online Winter Writing Challenge, a welcoming space for all faculty to focus on writing in community. Whether you’re starting a project, drafting a proposal, preparing a conference talk, finishing a paper, or returning from a writing hiatus, this is the space for you, and all are welcome.

This writing challenge offers a consistent, supportive space to write, share progress, and stay accountable as we head into the new year with community, commitment, and consistency. Bring any writing project, at any stage.

For questions, please contact Shari Watkins, shari@american.edu.
Register below.

Sign up to join or request support to run an existing Writing Group