Radical healing and writing: DRN summer retreats

July 8, 2024 - Deborah J. Johnson

Each year the Diversity Research Network, or DRN, admits 20-30 faculty for its writing retreats. The Summer Stay and the Mafungo balance unfettered writing segments, consultation, wellness activities, accountability and a supportive community to enhance the writing experience, productivity and connection for DRN faculty.

DRN brings faculty from Michigan State University and around the country to maximize their consultations. Faculty embrace their identities as writers, respond to thoughtful feedback from colleagues, and often have breakthroughs as they absorb nature. Meeting scholars from across campus increases interdisciplinary influence and collaboration. Over the years, DRN has had more than 180 participants and we continue to provide an experience that faculty regard as “meeting or exceeding their expectations” (100%) consistently leading to successful publication and promotion at MSU. 

Testimonials

“In addition to feeling so incredibly encouraged, I have some clearer ideas about how to move forward with my writing project and practical tools/skills to do so.”

“I found the community and ease of my day-to-day worries the most valuable. I was able to be present and work on my writing alongside a community of scholars cheering for my success.”

“Every single activity provided the holistic writing experience needed to foster an environment that fostered creativity, community, scholarship, wellbeing, joy and propels our research and wellbeing as academics and people.”