Mafungo retreat is well received by scholars after two-year hiatus

July 13, 2022 - Deborah J. Johnson

Returning for the first time in two years, the Diversity Research Network, or DRN, hosted its scholarly writing retreat in Northern Michigan, in Thompsonville, MI at Crystal Mountain.

Fourteen participants were accepted for the sixth year of writing retreats, 12 attended. Over 119 MSU diverse and diversity scholars have participated in that time.

One participant valued being in community with other scholars of color. "From the formal conversations we had during the roundtables and the informal ones … during a walk, it reaffirmed how important community is in my own success at MSU and our collective success.”

The Mafungo retreat is a three-day intensive experience where consistent concentrated writing time occurs alongside the availability of consultation and opportunities for support of the whole scholar. Additionally, the retreat is an opportunity to create critical connections for faculty across the university.

"After introductions, it was clear that many of us saw ourselves and our work as part of a broader social justice mission" said a contributor. "Writing alongside other people who seek to make the world a just place is energizing! It helped me to feel like what I was doing mattered.”  

As writers, faculty often describe the retreat as a transformative process igniting their motivation and creativity.

According to another scholar, “The consultations and presentations reminded me that I have to maintain a writing practice that is complete with intentional reflection and celebrations.” 

With an overall evaluation of excellent by all participants, 100% of participants indicated that the Mafungo met (20%) or exceeded (80%) their expectations. All said they would return (100%) and recommend the experience to others.  

Serving faculty in ways that promote and support the development and visibility of their scholarship while enhancing cross campus connections is the essence of the DRN mission. 

To learn more about how to participate in Mafungo retreats visit the webpage.