Erma Bombeck Writers' Workshop

The Erma Bombeck Writing Competition is hosted every two years by the University of Dayton and the Washington-Centerville Public Library in Centerville, Ohio, where Erma wrote the books and columns that launched her national fame. Over the years, the contest has drawn thousands of hopeful entries, submissions inspired by Erma Bombeck’s humor and humanity. The four winning writers will receive a free registration to the April 4-6, 2024, Erma Bombeck Writers’ Workshop, $1,000 and publication of their essays online and in the workshop’s program. A select number will receive honorable mentions, $100 and publication of their essays online.  In 2023, 480 writers from five countries, 48 states and the District of Columbia entered previously unpublished essays in humor and human interest categories — roughly 216,000 words. 

Vick Mickunas, creator of "The Book Nook," one of the longest-running radio shows about books, and Bill Scheft, novelist and longtime staff writer for Late Show with David Letterman, will serve as finalist judges for the 2024 Erma Bombeck Writing Competition. Mark your calendar! The Washington-Centerville Public Library will host a 7 p.m. awards ceremony keynoted by Betsy Bombeck on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. It's free and open to the public.