USAO Offers Weekly Evening Poetry Class to Public

CHICKASHA – Calling all closet poets! The University of Science and Arts is offering a no-stress, weekly poetry writing class on Wednesday evenings beginning Jan. 9. The eight-week class is open to the community and all ages.

Because the class does not earn college credit, no exams or tests will be given and no textbooks are required. Offered in conjunction with the USAO continuing education department, the class will focus on writing and reading a variety of poetry styles, from haiku to sonnet and more. Cost for the class is $20 per student and covers all class handouts and facility use.

The course is led by Jack Carr, a Chickasha poet who earned his bachelor of science degree in liberal arts from Excelsior College. He currently is completing his master of fine arts degree in creative writing and poetry through Goddard College.

“My goal for the course is to develop close reading skills and better writing technique,” Carr said. “I would also like to create an atmosphere that supports poets and develops a writers’ support group.”

Dr. Brenda Brown, professor of English and chair of the arts and humanities division, said the potential for the class exceeds in-class writing and reading alone.

“This poetry class is a wonderful opportunity for all USAO students interested in creative writing,” Brown said. “Jack has knowledge and enthusiasm and is planning to work with Dr. Bussey’s Independent Study class to create a literary magazine.”

Weekly classes will be held in Davis Hall, room 226, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Students may pay the $20 registration fee during the first class.

Additional information is available from Jack Carr by phone at (405) 208-2884.

NEWS RELEASE December 21, 2007
UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND ARTS OF OKLAHOMA - CHICKASHA
CONTACT MICHAEL BENDURE, News Bureau, 405-574-1362, mbendure@usao.edu
RANDY TALLEY: Public Relations, 405-574-1337, rtalley@usao.edu
FAX: 405-574-1377