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The vast majority of writers who attended the 2014 Erma Bombeck Writers' Workshop told us they loved it.

In particular, they loved Phil.

Phil Donahue's poignant, inspirational talk garnered the highest ratings for an opening-night speaker in workshop history and set the tone for the three-day gathering. Attendees called the legendary talk show host classy, authentic, warm, funny and gracious.

"He was phenomenal. Inspiring doesn't even cover it," wrote one attendee. He "moved me to tears," another observed. He "wowed me regarding the power of the pen and humor to change the world. (And he) reminded me that everyone, including me, makes a difference."

A record 66 percent of attendees completed an online survey that rated the workshop's sessions. The overall workshop, its cost vs. value, and the networking opportunities all received scores of 9 (out of 10). More than three-quarters said the knowledge and connections they gained at the workshop will cover the full cost of attending or far more than the cost of attending.

The emcee, keynoters, faculty, stand-up comedy night and Pitchapalooza all received high marks. "Patricia Wynn Brown is an amazing emcee. She has the rare combination of intelligence, compassion, beauty, elegance and a sharp wit," one attendee said.

Pitchapalooza, billed as the American Idol for books, only kinder and gentler, "was sensational," another attendee wrote. "I loved hearing the pitches and couldn't wait for the judges' comments, which were often humorous, always constructive and so helpful for me in crafting the pitch for my own novel."

Approximately 350 writers from all parts of the country converged at the University of Dayton, Bombeck's alma mater, for the April 10-12 biennial workshop that's become so popular that it sold out in 12 hours. It's here that Erma first heard the words, "You can write!" from an English professor.

Highlights among hundreds of write-in responses include:

• "I've been to many different conferences for many different subjects in many different places. This is by far my favorite. Granted, the topic is dear to my heart. But the feel of the EBWW conference is very much like going to visit family, even though it was my first time and I hadn't met anyone attending before. I like that it's relatively small. It feels like a warm hug."

• "I was amazed at the high caliber of speakers. Keep that! I also liked the accessibility of writing rock stars. But also, the high level of competency - from organizing to emceeing - was wonderful. I felt welcomed, was inspired, laughed and cried, and learned."

• "I will definitely keep coming back and will continue to be an Erma evangelist! I absolutely love how accessible all the speakers are and the myriad networking opportunities you provide. Thank you so much for all you do to put together such an incredible conference and make us all feel so welcomed and valued."

• "The workshop is so energizing, so supportive, so accessible to authors and faculty, it is amazing."

• It is always good to have a mix of marketing, craft, inspiration and connection. I believe you achieved this in spades."

• "The Erma Bombeck Writers' Workshop is truly a class act!"

• "By the time 2016 rolls around, writing will be my career - not just a dream for the future!"

• "The best thing about this conference is the lack of competitive spirit. Everyone wants everyone to succeed."

• "World class."

The food, depending upon who you asked, was either "awesome" or "lacking in every way." The best comment? "Keep the cake, no matter what the national health movement is."

Writers offered us constructive criticism, too. Attendees want more writing exercises in the workshops and greater focus on the craft of writing. Some recommended tracks for beginners and more established writers. A few suggested better organized breakfast roundtables and larger rooms for the workshops. Finally, a number recommended more down time between the afternoon sessions and the dinner program.

In addition to survey responses, more than 50 writers tapped out literally thousands of words to capture their experience at the 2014 Erma Bombeck Writers' Workshop. For links to their newspaper and online stories, blogs and podcasts, click here.

Audio recordings of the individual sessions or the complete workshop can be ordered here.

The next Erma Bombeck Writers' Workshop will be held in the spring 2016. The date has not been set yet. To keep in touch, like our Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and subscribe to our free monthly e-newsletter. To subscribe, visit our blog.

- Teri Rizvi

Teri Rizvi is the founder of the Erma Bombeck Writers' Workshop and executive director of strategic communications at the University of Dayton.