Blogs

A keynote talk by New York Times bestselling author Anne Lamott will headline a full day of creativity and inspiration at “The Virtual Erma: Stories of Our Lives” on Saturday, April 5.

The daylong virtual workshop will feature a special, tailored address from Lamott — pre-recorded and crafted exclusively for the University of Dayton’s Erma Bombeck Writers’ Workshop. Lamott, renowned for her deeply personal, introspective and humorous writing, will share her wisdom “on the art of writing your truth,” then answer questions that have been submitted in advance from attendees.

The day also will include five live, interactive writing sessions led by seasoned instructors who will help writers refine their craft, write from the heart and bring vulnerability, purpose (and some humor) to their work.

The presenters: 

Steve Almond, author of a dozen books, including Truth is the Arrow, Mercy is the Bow: A DIY Manual for the Construction of Stories and All the Secrets of the World (in development at 20th Century Fox television).|
Session: “Funny is the New Deep.”

Polly Campbell, podcaster and author of You, Recharged: How to Beat Fatigue (Mostly), Amp Up Your Energy (Usually) and Enjoy Life Again, (Always) and three other books. 
Session: “Voice Lessons: Shaping Your Authentic Voice.” 

Bonnie Jean Feldkamp, columnist for Creators Syndicate and former community engagement and opinion editor for the Louisville Courier-Journal.
Session: “Writing Your Truth in the Age of Hate.”

Kimberly Lee, writer, editor and creativity coach.
Session: “Writing with Nature as Our Muse.”

Tara Karr Roberts, novelist, freelance writer, science writer, newspaper columnist and writing instructor.
Session: “Get Specific: Finding Funny Words, Examples, Metaphors & More.”

Pricing and Registration:

Family and Friends Rate: $99 (available through Feb. 12)
Early Bird Rate: $109 (available through March 15)
Standard Rate: $119 (after March 15)

All sessions will be recorded and available to attendees for at least six months. For details and to register, visit go.udayton.edu/thevirtualerma2025.

The Erma Bombeck Writers’ Workshop is known for its welcoming, supportive environment for writers of all experience levels. The next in-person gathering is slated for March 26-28, 2026. Registration will open in November.