Apply for an Olive B. O’Connor Fellowship in Creative Writing

Colgate University invites applications for the Olive B. O’Connor Fellowship in Creative Writing.

This year, we invite applications for:

  • One fellowship in nonfiction
  • One fellowship in poetry

Contact

Please contact Tess Jones with any questions at tjones@colgate.edu

Qualifications

Writers who have recently completed an MFA, MA, or PhD in creative writing, and who need a year to complete their first book, are encouraged to apply.

About the Fellowship

The selected writers will spend the academic year at Colgate University in Hamilton, New York. The fellows will:

  • Teach one creative writing course each semester
  • Give a public reading from the work in progress.
  • Co-supervise one or more theses

Compensation

The fellowship carries a stipend of $58,800 plus travel expenses. Health and life insurance are provided.

Apply

Complete applications, due by January 12, 2026, consist of:

  • Cover letter
  • Resume
  • Three letters of recommendation, at least one of which should address the candidate’s abilities as a teacher
  • Writing sample 

Colgate strives to be a community supportive of diverse perspectives and identities. All applications should speak directly to the candidate’s ability to work effectively with students across a wide range of identities and backgrounds.

 Submit Nonfiction ApplicationSubmit Poetry Application

About the University

Colgate is a highly selective liberal arts university of 2900 students situated in central New York State. The Colgate faculty is committed to excellence in both teaching and scholarship. Further information about the Department of English.

It is the policy of Colgate University not to discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment on the basis of their race, color, creed, religion, age, sex, pregnancy, national origin, marital status, disability, Protected Veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, being or having been victims of domestic violence or stalking, familial status, or any other categories covered by law. Candidates from historically underrepresented groups, women, persons with disabilities, and Protected Veterans are encouraged to apply.