UMPI to host “Voices in the North Country,” after a five-year break. 

by Belen Dougherty,

UTIMES Editor

Presque Isle, ME—After a five-year hiatus, the University of Maine at Presque Isle (UMPI) is opening their doors to all writers, artists, and literary enthusiasts by holding their biennial, Voices in the North Country symposium. This two-day event will feature special guest speakers such as John Cariani, who will be the distinguished lecturer. Cariani is known for his critical acclaimed novel and play Almost, Maine. 

Dr. Deborah Hodgkins, the co-chair of the symposium planning committee and a professor of English at the university, shared what she’s looking forward to.

 “The conversations from writers at the symposium, especially hearing John Cariani’s new work,” she noted.

Along with John Cariani, the symposium will feature  readings from Kathleen Ellis, while Kathryn Olmstead will moderate a panel discussion. Students who submitted work for UMPI’s literary magazine “upcountry” will also have an opportunity to read some of their work. This will allow an opportunity to engage in Maine’s literary community. 

Hodgkins’ hopes that the event reinvigorates attendees “love for literature and be inspired to engage in more of their own writing.”